History 165 Midterm Flashcards

Abacus School

• Educational institutions in Italy for commerce preparation.
• Focused on mathematics, business, and trading skills.
• Attended predominantly by upper middle-class children.

Leon Battista Alberti

• Italian humanist and architect (1404-1472), recognized as the first "universal genius."
• Authored works discussing linear perspective and artistic techniques.
• Notable designs include the facade of Palazzo Rucellai and Basilica di Saint'Andrea.
• His constructions reflected humanist ideals but he did not engage in physical building projects.

Facade of Santa Maria Novella

• Renowned example of early Renaissance architecture by Alberti from the mid-15th century.
• Successfully harmonized new architectural styles with existing structures.
• Influenced by mathematical and geometric studies, showcasing Platonic philosophy.

Palazzo Rucellai

• Fifteenth-century townhouse in Florence, designed by Alberti for Giovanni de Paolo Rucellai.
• Execution of the project was carried out by architect Bernardo Russellino.

Tempio Malatestiano

• Chapel in Rimini commissioned by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, a military general and art patron.
• Originally a Gothic church, renovated by Alberti in 1446 but left unfinished after Malatesta's death.
• Features relief work by artists Auggistino Duccio and Bernardo Ciuffagni, supplemented with Neo-Platonic iconography inspired by philosopher Gemistus Pletho.

De Familia

• Alberti's first treatise, written in 1443-44, encompassing three books.
• Discusses domestic behavior and familial roles, including dynamics between husbands and wives.

De pictura

• Treatise by Alberti detailing art through the lens of geometry.
• Explores the principles of visual composition, light, and color for effective painting.
• Addresses moral and artistic qualifications necessary for a painter's success.

De re aedificatoria

• Alberti’s 1450 work that critiques and expands on Vitruvius's "Ten Books of Architecture."
• A modern architectural theory that integrates classical design with innovative mathematical concepts.
• Emphasizes aesthetics in architecture with a focus on unity and harmony (concinnitas) in design.

Albizzi Family

• Prominent ruling family in Florence during the late 14th century, adversaries to the Medici.
• Rinaldo Albizzi, a diplomat and soldier, led the family aimed at preserving aristocratic power.
• Initiated conflicts to expand Florence's territory, which ultimately backfired.

Altarpiece

• Artistic compositions, often paintings or sculptures, usually found above church altars.
• Can consist of multiple panels (diptych, triptych, polyptych).
• Served to showcase artistic talent and often funded by affluent families.

Beatrice

• Dante Alighieri's original muse, inspired by a real-life love interest.
• Plays a pivotal role in Dante's poetic works, symbolizing divine blessings and guidance.

Test your knowledge with these flashcards covering key concepts from History 165. Learn about notable figures and educational systems like the abacus school and Leon Battista Alberti, who made significant contributions during the Renaissance. Perfect for midterm preparation!