The Renaissance Unchained
In this series critic and writer Waldemar Januszczak challenges the traditional review that the European Renaissance originated in southern Europe, advocating a case for the north instead.
- 2016-2016
- 1 season
- Documentary
In this series critic and writer Waldemar Januszczak challenges the traditional review that the European Renaissance originated in southern Europe, advocating a case for the north instead.
Season 1 Episode Guide
4 Episodes 2016
Episode 1
Gods, Myths and Oil Paints
Waldemar Januszczak challenges the idea of the Renaissance having fixed origins in Italy and showcases the ingenuity in both technique and ideas behind great artists such as Van Eyck, Memling, Van dear Weyden, Cranach, Riemenschneider and Durer.
Episode 2
Whips, Deaths and Madonnas
59 mins
Waldemar returns to Italy to trace the Italian Renaissance from its perceived origins with Giotto and takes a look at the importance of religious narrative in Italian art. While there were certainly a few aesthetic influences from classical art, the majority of Italian painting and sculpture in the 14th and 15th centuries was created to inspire devotion.
Episode 3
Silk, Sex and Sin
60 mins
Waldemar focuses on Venice and its extraordinary impact on art history. He celebrates color, drama and vitality by looking at the delicate colors of Bellini, the mystery of Giorgione, the splendour of Titian, the drama and chaos of Tintoretto and the glorious banquets of Veronese.
Episode 4
Hell, Snakes and Giants
59 mins
In the final episode Waldemar looks at the surprising climax of the Renaissance as it spiralled into madness and distortion. This was a period full of war, confusion and darkness, which was captured perfectly in the art of Leonardo, Bosch, Arcimboldo, Palissy, the Italian Mannerists and El Greco.