Painter, born Florence, 1406; died Spoleto, 1469. Educated as an orphan in the Carmelite convent near Florence, he joined the order at 16. His later life showed his lack of vocation and 1458, Pius II released him from his vows. He was one of the first to humanize religious art. One of his earliest paintings was the "Madonna" of the Uffizi, painted c.1435,for Cosimo de' Medici. The "Coronation of the Virgin," into which he introduced his own portrait, 1441, is now in the Florence Academy. Two of his first works are "The Vision of Saint Bernard" (National Gallery, London) and "The Death of Saint Stephen" in the cathedral of Prato. The "Annunciation" in the National Gallery shows the influence of Fra Angelico. His son, Filippino (1458-1575), extraordinary gifted, was taught by Botticelli. His masterpiece is "The Vision of Saint Bernard" (Badia, Florence).
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
Read More