Cosmè Tura, also known as Il Cosmè or Cosimo Tura, was a renowned Italian painter and one of the founders of the School of Ferrara. Born in 1430 in Ferrara, Italy, he is considered one of the most important artists of the early Renaissance. His artistic style, characterized by clear and sharp signs, decorative exuberance, and citations of the antique, had a significant impact on the development of Italian art.
Formation and Influences
Tura's formation as an artist is not well documented, but it is believed that he was influenced by the works of
Fra Angelico,
Piero della Francesca, and
Andrea Mantegna. He may have also been influenced by the Flemish artists who worked in Ferrara, as evident from his use of oil paint to render the differing textures of materials depicted. Tura's style was shaped by his exposure to various artistic traditions, including the Tuscan innovations brought to Padua by Donatello.
Under Borso d'Este
In 1456, Tura returned to Ferrara and became a painter in the full sense, appearing on the court salary rolls. He worked for the rest of his active life for
Borso d'Este and
Ercole I d'Este, providing a great contribution to the Renaissance in Ferrara. Tura's talents were utilized in various artistic manifestations, including set design for parties and tournaments, decoration, and design of furniture and clothes.
Artistic Style and Legacy
Tura's artistic style is characterized by
clear and sharp signs,
decorative exuberance, and
citations of the antique. His use of
oil paint to render the differing textures of materials depicted was innovative for its time. Tura's legacy can be seen in his influence on later artists, including
Giovanni Andrea Ghirardoni, who was also part of the School of Ferrara.
- Cosmè Tura is considered one of the most important artists of the early Renaissance.
- His artistic style had a significant impact on the development of Italian art.
- Tura's use of oil paint to render textures was innovative for its time.
- He worked for Borso d'Este and Ercole I d'Este, providing a great contribution to the Renaissance in Ferrara.
Some of Tura's notable works can be found in the Ferrara museum, which is dedicated to the art and history of the city. For more information on Cosmè Tura and his artistic style, visit
Fra Angelico or
Piero della Francesca.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cosmè Tura was a master of Renaissance art who had a significant impact on the development of Italian art. His artistic style, characterized by clear and sharp signs, decorative exuberance, and citations of the antique, continues to inspire artists today. Through his work for
Borso d'Este and
Ercole I d'Este, Tura provided a great contribution to the Renaissance in Ferrara, cementing his place as one of the most important artists of the early Renaissance.