Botticelli-Vierge et Enfant avec un ange

Early Renaissance or Quattrocento (Italian mille quattrocento, or 1400) refers to the 15th century in Florentine art. Extraordinary wealth was accumulated in Florence among a growing middle and upper class of merchants and bankers. Florence saw itself as a city-state where the freedom of the individual was guaranteed, and where a significant share of residents had the right to participate in the government. In 1400 Florence was engaged in a struggle with the Duke of Milan. Then, between 1408 and 1414 again, by the King of Naples. Both died before they could conquer Florence. In 1425 Florence won the war against Milan. The Florentine interpreted these victories as signs of God's favor and imagined themselves as the "New Rome". In this new optimistic and wealthy environment, Florentine artists immersed themselves in studies of the humanities, architecture, philosophy, theology, mathematics, science, and design. They spurred a rejuvenation of the glories of classical art in line with the humanistic and individualistic tendencies of the contemporary era. Quattrocento was followed by the High Renaissance, North European Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque periods. Unlike the previous proto-renaissances, the innovations that emerged in Florence would go on to cause reverberations in Italy and Northern Europe, which continue to influence culture until today.

Sandro Botticelli (1445–1510) was an Italian painter of the early Renaissance. He was born in Florence, Italy and trained under Fra Filippo Lippi. Botticelli's most famous works include The Birth of Venus and Primavera, both of which depict mythological scenes. He was known for his use of bright colours and delicate lines, as well as his attention to detail and symbolism. In addition to his mythological paintings, Botticelli also painted religious works such as The Adoration of the Magi and The Mystical Nativity. Despite his success during his lifetime, Botticelli's reputation declined after his death, and it was not until the 19th century that his work was rediscovered and celebrated by art historians.