verrochio

Andrea del Verrocchio, born Andrea di Michele di Francesco di Cione, was an Italian sculptor, painter, goldsmith, and medallist of the Early Renaissance. He was born in Florence around 1435. Verrocchio was a highly influential artist and teacher whose workshop became a center of artistic activity, attracting many talented young artists.

His most famous pupil was Leonardo da Vinci, who apprenticed with him for many years. Other notable students included Sandro Botticelli, Perugino, and Domenico Ghirlandaio. Verrocchio's workshop was known for its rigorous training in drawing, painting, sculpture, and other artistic disciplines.

As a sculptor, Verrocchio is renowned for his bronze works. His David, created for the Medici family, is a significant departure from earlier representations, showing a more youthful and introspective figure. His equestrian monument of Bartolomeo Colleoni in Venice is considered one of the masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture, celebrated for its dynamic realism and powerful depiction of the condottiero.

In painting, Verrocchio's surviving works include the Baptism of Christ, where he is believed to have painted the angel on the left, with Leonardo da Vinci painting the angel on the right, demonstrating the student's emerging talent. Verrocchio also worked as a goldsmith, creating intricate and detailed pieces. He died in Venice in 1488. His legacy lies not only in his own artistic achievements but also in the profound influence he had on the next generation of Renaissance artists through his teaching and workshop.