The nickname Tintoretto, meaning little dyer, originated from the occupation of his father, Battista, in Venice. Born in 1519, this Italian artist rose to prominence within the Venetian school, eventually becoming known for an intense, energetic painting style that defined his contributions to the Mannerist movement during the sixteenth century.
Artistic Development
Little is definitively recorded regarding his early training. While some accounts suggest a brief apprenticeship under Titian, the two artists maintained a strained relationship throughout their careers. Tintoretto sought independent mastery, focusing on the study of human anatomy through dissection and the creation of drawings from models of Michelangelo's works. His studio motto, emphasizing the drawing of Michelangelo and the color of Titian, reflected his personal artistic philosophy.
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His breakthrough occurred in 1548 with the commission of the Miracle of the Slave for the Scuola di S. Marco. This work utilized dramatic lighting and bold perspective, establishing his reputation for theatrical composition. To ensure successful commissions, he often accepted projects at little to no cost, such as his work for the Madonna dell'Orto, where he produced large-scale canvases that showcased his mastery of space and movement.
Technical Mastery
Tintoretto was recognized for his phenomenal energy, earning the moniker il Furioso. He frequently employed off-center perspective in his lateral paintings to enhance the illusion of depth for viewers positioned in chapel aisles. His extensive body of work includes significant religious and mythological scenes such as Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet, St. Roch in Glory, and Tarquin and Lucretia, reflecting his commitment to the Venetian tradition.
Fast facts
- Born: 1519, Venice
- Died: 1594, Venice
- Movement: Mannerism, Venetian school
- Notable work: Crucifixion
- Notable work: St Mark's Body Brought to Venice
- Notable work: Leda and the Swan
- Notable work: Judith and Holofernes
- Burial place: Madonna dell'Orto
Questions readers ask
Why was he called Tintoretto?
The name means little dyer, a reference to the profession of his father, Battista, who worked as a dyer in Venice.
What was his relationship with Titian?
Historical accounts describe a brief, unsuccessful apprenticeship under Titian, followed by years of professional rivalry and disparagement between the two.
Achievements
- Notable work: St. Roch in Glory
- Notable work: Crucifixion
- Notable work: Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet
- Notable work: Portrait of a White-Bearded Man
- Movement: Mannerism and Venetian school
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