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The Arts Intel Report

The Making of the Body in Renaissance Venice. Leonardo, Michelangelo, Dürer, Giorgione

Michelangelo Buonarroti, Studies for the Libyan Sibyl, c. 1510–11.

Until July 27
Campo della Carita, 1050, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

During the Renaissance, the human body became a major subject of artistic exploration. Leonardo da Vinci, for instance, examined it anatomically. What is the structure of a human heart? How do bone and muscle create movement? Others, such as Rubens and Botticelli, viewed the body, particularly the female form, sensually. Meanwhile, the rise of cosmetics and personal care tools in Renaissance cities reflected a growing interest in self-presentation. This exhibition delves into these varied perspectives, with works by Michelangelo, Leonardo, Dürer, and more. As an added bonus, Leonardo’s drawing Vitruvian Man returns to display after six years. —Elena Clavarino

Photo: The Metropolitan Museum of Art