Lexi M on ANNUNICATION Martini and Memmi

Summary

ANNUNICATION

Martini and Memmi. 1333.

Martini and Memmi used linear perspective and modeling to be able to create an illusion of three-dimensionality. Martini followed Duccio and collaborated with his brother-in-law, Memmi, to create the ANNUNCIATION altarpiece for the Siena Cathedral. Duccio started to stray from the Byzantine and International Gothic styles; this was seen in Martini and Memmi's work as well. This can be seen by the folds of the drapery on all four of the figures in the painting. The use of shadows, or modeling, on all the hands, faces, clothing, and even the flowers in the background add to the illusion of three-dimensionality. The horizon line of the painting defines the space that the figures are in and adds to the illusion. Lastly, the overlapping of objects, such as Mary's book in her left hand or Gabriel's wings, puts the figures in a three-dimensional space. Martini and Memmi created this altarpiece in the early 14th century but displayed the use of revolutionary techniques that would become defining features of Renaissance art.