Paolo Veronese (Caliari)
A Renaissance Man
Biography
Born in 1528 Verona Italy, Paolo Caliari became known as Paolo Veronese because of his birthplace. He is recognized as a greatly contributing artist to the Italian Renaissance. In fact, he is considered one of the best Venetian artists of all time. His paintings included religious and secular works, which depended on his patron's desires. His style influenced many generations to come.
Youth and Teenage Years
There are little known about Veronese's interests and family life as a youth. By 1541, Veronese received training from one of the leading artists in Verona, Antonio Badile. Eventually, Paolo ironically married Antonio's daughter. In Paolo's late teens, he was commissioned by the important Giustiniani family of Venice to paint an altarpiece for their church. This was the start of Veronese's paintings that reflected Catholicism.
Influences
Paolo's works came from one particular artist,Titian, despite Paolo's unique style. Titian came before Veronese, and their paintings look somewhat similar. Veronese was influenced by Central and Northern Italian art at that time. Venetian life at the time was prospering in public eye. Splendor and wealth were all over the streets, and Paolo Caliari used this mood in his art. Fresco compositions with bright colors, festive events, heroic scenes, and happiness were Paolo's specialties.
Life
Paolo Veronese moved to Venice in the 1550s and remained there until his death on April ninth, 1588. He painted for a multitude of patrons who ordered his career in different paths. Some of his works were for church decoration, as others were elaborate frescoes. He made tons of paintings in his lifetime having incentives from those who commissioned him. He ran a large workshop with his brother, Benedetto who took the shop over after Paolo's death.
The Crucifixion (1584)
Veronese had to take a different approach to this painting because his style is commonly known for happiness. He did stick with oil on canvas to make this. I find it interesting that Veronese was willing to take a break in his style to create religious works for Christians. This event is important to any follower of Christ because the savior on Earth dies by crucifixion.
This painting relates to the Renaissance ideal of religion. Specifically, it relates to Christianity because the messiah is shown. You may come across this painting in a Christian church today because they often have stations of the cross.