Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How does the Linaiuoli Altarpiece show Masaccio’s influence?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Fra Angelico
Madonna of Humility, tempera on panel by Fra Angelico, c. 1440; in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
The Linaiuoli Altarpiece, dated 1433, demonstrates the influence of Masaccio on Fra Angelico through several key artistic elements:
- Formalism and Construction: The altarpiece reflects Masaccio’s influence in the formalism of its construction, moving beyond purely medieval traditions.1
- Innovative Use of Light and Colour: Angelico adopted Masaccio’s innovative approach to light and colour to enhance the depth and presence of his figures.1
- Figure Treatment: While the work retains some traditional medieval characteristics, the male saints depicted in the wings of the altarpiece clearly reveal the influence of Masaccio’s style.2
These stylistic choices highlight how Fra Angelico, while maintaining his own unique artistic identity, began incorporating the revolutionary spatial and sculptural techniques that Masaccio had introduced to Florentine painting.312