Cosmè Tura - Madonna with the Child Enthroned (detail) - WGA23116

Early Renaissance or Quattrocento (Italian mille quattrocento, or 1400) refers to the 15th century in Florentine art. Extraordinary wealth was accumulated in Florence among a growing middle and upper class of merchants and bankers. Florence saw itself as a city-state where the freedom of the individual was guaranteed, and where a significant share of residents had the right to participate in the government. In 1400 Florence was engaged in a struggle with the Duke of Milan. Then, between 1408 and 1414 again, by the King of Naples. Both died before they could conquer Florence. In 1425 Florence won the war against Milan. The Florentine interpreted these victories as signs of God's favor and imagined themselves as the "New Rome". In this new optimistic and wealthy environment, Florentine artists immersed themselves in studies of the humanities, architecture, philosophy, theology, mathematics, science, and design. They spurred a rejuvenation of the glories of classical art in line with the humanistic and individualistic tendencies of the contemporary era. Quattrocento was followed by the High Renaissance, North European Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque periods. Unlike the previous proto-renaissances, the innovations that emerged in Florence would go on to cause reverberations in Italy and Northern Europe, which continue to influence culture until today.

Cosme Tura was an Italian painter and sculptor born around 1430 in Ferrara, Italy. He is known for his distinctive style, which combined elements of Gothic and Renaissance art. Tura worked primarily in his hometown of Ferrara, where he was commissioned by the ruling Este family to create many of his most famous works. Tura's early works were heavily influenced by the Gothic style, with its emphasis on highly stylised figures and elaborate decoration. However, as he matured as an artist, Tura began to incorporate more Renaissance elements into his work, such as a greater focus on perspective and naturalism. One of Tura's most famous works is the cycle of frescoes in the Palazzo Schifanoia in Ferrara, depicting the months of the year and their corresponding signs of the zodiac. The frescoes are notable for their intricate detail and vibrant colours, as well as their incorporation of astrological symbolism. Tura also created many altarpieces and religious paintings, often featuring elongated figures and exaggerated poses. His sculptures, mostly created in collaboration with his brother Jacopo, were similarly stylised and expressive. Despite his significant contributions to the art world, Tura's work was largely forgotten after his death in 1495. It wasn't until the 20th century that his work was rediscovered and appreciated for its unique style and innovative techniques.