Tommaso di Cristoforo Fini (Masolino)
- Born:
- 1383, Panicale, Italy
- Died:
- c. 1447, Florence, Italy
- Nationality:
- Italian
- Profession(s):
- Painter
Early Life and Education
- Little is definitively known about Masolino's early life and training.
- He is believed to have trained in Florence, possibly under Lorenzo Ghiberti.
- Early influences suggest a connection to the Late Gothic style.
Career and Major Achievements
- Masolino, whose full name was Tommaso di Cristoforo Fini, was a pivotal figure in the transition from Late Gothic to Early Renaissance painting. This is discussed in many texts including 'Masolino biography sample' guides.
- Collaborated with Masaccio on the Brancacci Chapel frescoes in the church of Santa Maria del Carmine, Florence. This collaboration is one of the most significant in art history.
- Worked extensively in Florence, Empoli, and other Italian cities.
- Known for his elegant style, characterized by a blend of realism and idealization.
Notable Works
- Brancacci Chapel frescoes (with Masaccio), Santa Maria del Carmine, Florence
- Annunciation, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
- Madonna of Humility, Uffizi Gallery, Florence
- St Peter Healing the Cripple and the Raising of Tabitha, Brancacci Chapel
Legacy and Impact
Masolino's work represents a crucial link between the Gothic traditions and the emerging Renaissance style. While overshadowed by Masaccio, his contributions to the Brancacci Chapel and his own independent works demonstrate his significant artistic skill and his role in the development of Early Renaissance painting.