Sandro Botticelli

Biography:

• Sandro Botticelli was born in Italy in 1444. He was one of Florence's favorite artists. Botticelli's real name was Alessandro Filipepi. He became known as Botticelli when he went to live with his older brother, Botticello. He died in the year 15 19. He died a lonely man having done little or no more painting in the last ten years. It was not until over 350 years after his death that the world recognized his importance in art.

Interesting Facts:

• He was known for his religious pictures but his most famous works were paintings of mythological creatures and gods from ancient Greek and Roman stories.
• He was more interested in making his paintings beautiful in a fantasy kind of way.
• He used his paint brush like a pen or a pencil to outline, or add lines around the people in his painting. His line work help give a feeling of movement to his painting.

Famous Works:

Botticelli's most famous painting was "Primavera." In this painting the people represent the wonderful things that happen in spring time. He placed Venus, the Goddess of Love, right in the middle of this picture and cupid is above her head. The lady in the pretty dress with flowers could be Springtime herself. The west wind flying through the air is blowing warm breezes. The other people are the nymphs and gods that help make spring such a wonderful time of the year.

Personal Thoughts:

"I don't like Botticelli 's paintings because he doesn't draw or paint real good because it is not realistic enough."

"I like his painting because he uses Roman and Greek characters."