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Botticelli: Beauty, Bankers and the Bonfire of the Vanities

Elaine Ruffolo, Renaissance art historian

Sandro Botticelli, one of the most celebrated artists of the Italian Renaissance, emerged from the vibrant and turbulent milieu of Florence in the late 15th century. Born Alessandro di Mariano di Vanni Filipepi around 1445, Botticelli's work captures the rich tapestry of Renaissance art, characterized by its revival of classical themes and its exploration of humanism. His paintings, such as The Birth of Venus and Primavera, exemplify his mastery of line, form, and mythological narrative, which have captivated audiences for centuries.

Botticelli's art reflects not only his technical prowess but also a window into the cultural and intellectual currents of his time. His career flourished under the patronage of the Medici family, whose influence permeates much of his work, blending classical mythology with contemporary Florentine ideals. However, Botticelli's trajectory was significantly impacted by the dramatic events of the late 15th century, notably the Bonfire of the Vanities in 1497, when religious fervor led to the destruction of many artworks deemed immoral or decadent.

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