Fra Angelico

Dominican friar and painter of the early Florentine Renaissance, known for religious frescoes.

Chronology: 1395 – 1455-02-18

Early Life and Dominican Foundation

Born John of Fiesole, he was an Italian Dominican friar who began his artistic career in the early Florentine Renaissance. His early works spanned from 1408 to 1436, establishing his dedication to painting exclusively religious subjects.

The Zenith at San Marco and the Vatican

Angelico's career peaked with the frescoes commissioned for the Dominican convent of San Marco in Florence between 1436 and 1445. Following this, he worked in Rome, completing commissions under the patronage of Popes Eugene IV and Nicholas V during the period of 1445 to 1455.

Artistic Legacy and Posthumous Honor

He is recognized as a pioneer of early Renaissance trends, notably linear perspective and a heightened attention to depth. His enduring influence was cemented by his beatification by Pope John Paul II in 1982, and later declared the patron of artists in 1984.

Source: Wikipedia