Brunelleschi, Pazzi Chapel, 1442-43 Flashcards
What type of education did Filippo Brunelleschi receive in his youth?
Literary and mathematical education, intended for a civil service career like his father’s.
What guild did Brunelleschi join and what profession did he master in 1398?
Arte della Seta (Silkmakers’ Guild); he became a master goldsmith.
What event prompted Brunelleschi’s long stay in Rome?
Losing the 1401 competition for the Baptistery Doors to Lorenzo Ghiberti.
How did Brunelleschi’s time in Rome influence his architecture?
He studied and internalised ancient Roman architectural forms and engineering principles.
List some of Brunelleschi’s talents and professions according to his biographer Manetti.
Architect, mathematician, geometer, sculptor, painter, inventor, engineer (military, naval, hydraulic), designer of theatre machinery and musical instruments.
Which Renaissance idea is embodied by Brunelleschi’s work?
“Man is the measure of all things” — human reason and intellect as God-given gifts.
What three major achievements is Brunelleschi credited with?
Invention of linear perspective, completion of Florence Cathedral Dome, rediscovery of ancient Roman building techniques.
What was the function of the Pazzi Chapel?
Chapter House for the Franciscan friars at Santa Croce and intended burial chapel for the Pazzi family.
Chapter House for the Franciscan friars at Santa Croce and intended burial chapel for the Pazzi family.
Andrea de’ Pazzi and his sons Piero, Jacopo, and Antonio.
Why were no more Pazzis buried there after the original patrons?
Due to the Pazzi Conspiracy against the Medici (1478) and the family’s exile.
How does the exterior portico of the Pazzi Chapel relate to Brunelleschi?
Likely not by Brunelleschi; probably designed later by Giuliano da Maiano after the Pazzi exile.
What classical architectural form does the portico resemble?
A Roman triumphal arch — symbolising “the triumph over death.”
What is on the doorway above the portico and what does it symbolise?
Terracotta tondo of Saint Andrew by Luca della Robbia, referencing Andrea Pazzi.
How is the central dome of the chapel constructed?
12-ribbed dome rising from pendentives, topped with a lantern to bring in light.
What is the plan and structure of the interior like?
Rectangular structure with central square topped by a dome, barrel vaults on the wings, and a smaller dome over the scarsella.
How does the chapel plan reflect Brunelleschi’s earlier work?
It consolidates and expands ideas from his Old Sacristy at San Lorenzo.
What artistic elements decorate the pendentives and dome?
Roundels of the Four Evangelists and terracotta reliefs of the Apostles.
How does Brunelleschi symbolically link Earth and Heaven inside the Pazzi Chapel?
Square forms below represent Earth; circular/hemispherical forms above represent Heaven.
What painting appears in the dome and what does it depict?
Star constellation painting possibly showing the night sky during key Florentine events (1439 Council of Florence or 1442 Chapel consecration).
What Vitruvian principle underpins Brunelleschi’s design?
Venustas (Beauty) — based on proportion and natural harmony.
What does the geometry of the interior reveal about Brunelleschi’s approach?
Strict use of modules and proportional systems to achieve mathematical harmony.
How are modules used to organise the chapel’s design?
Measurements like pilaster width, room height, and vaults all relate proportionally to a standard unit (module).
What materials did Brunelleschi use in the interior?
Pietra serena for mouldings (pilasters, arches, ribs) set against white stucco.
How does the use of pietra serena affect the chapel’s atmosphere?
Creates a rhythmic, elegant, and restrained effect, fitting Franciscan ideals of humility.
