<<ALT TAG: This is part of a map of Venice from the era. It looks more like a side-view of the city than a traditional map.>>
This map was drawn in the 15th century. How is it different from a map you might see today? What can you infer about the city from the style of the map? In 1450, Italy was divided into city/states vying for dominance. Venice was in the perfect location for trade, and goods from the eastern and western world entered its harbours. Venice had a rich economy, and used its powerful navy and strategic alliances to protect it. Not all was positive, however. The rise of the Ottomans was hampering Venetian trade, shutting down major trade routes. The fall of Constantinople was a major blow to the city’s economy.
<<ALT TAG: In this painting, Foscari is dressed in rich robes. It is a side portrait; he is looking off to our right.>>
In 1450, the Doge (roughly, duke) of Venice was Francesco Foscari. While the role of Doge was a life-long position, it was not the same as a noble title. The city of Venice was a republic; the Doge was elected by his fellow members of the aristocracy, usually based on his shrewdness. Foscari’s fall reveals the power held by the city’s elite class. The Council of Ten, a secretive group of city elders, forced him to abdicate following a scandal implicating his son.
<<ALT TAG: This drawing features Fedele looking slightly off to her right and down. The look on her face suggests contemplation or sadness.>>
The education of aristocratic women aligned with Humanist values, but it also benefited their parents; the public perception of one’s daughter could impact the perception of the entire family. Some women achieved considerable status in Venice due to their publications and orations. The work of Cassandra Fedele, shown here, drew praise from across Italy and Spain. In fact, she was actively recruited by Isabella of Castile to join the Spanish Court. One of the hallmarks of her career occurred when she delivered an address to the Doge and the Senate about the importance of higher education for women.
<<ALT TAG: This is St. Gerome in the Desert. While it features the proportions typical of the Italian Renaissance, the rich colours suggest a Byzantine influence.>>
The Italian Renaissance rekindled interest in the classical world of the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Understanding of art, science, and philosophy changed considerably, and a new way of viewing the role of the individual, called Humanism, dominated cultural discourse. The Renaissance certainly impacted Venice, but the city’s culture owed much to its old connections to the Byzantine empire. In both trade and in art, Venice was an intermediary between worlds. These influences can be seen in this painting of St. Gerome in the Desert. While it features the proportions typical of the Italian Renaissance, the rich colours suggest a Byzantine influence.