Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance
An important monograph dedicated to one of the most important protagonists of German Renaissance painting, Mathis Grünewald (c. 1480-1528), in the light of significant archival and iconographic novelties.

The German painter Matthias Grünewald (c. 1480–1528) has remained one of the most enigmatic figures of the Renaissance, his artistic identity defined by stylistic complexity and historical obscurity. In this study, Edoardo Villata re-examines Grünewald’s oeuvre through a critical reassessment of sources, stylistic developments, and the broader network of artistic influences. Moving beyond established interpretations, Villata explores the relationship between documentary research and comparative analysis, situating Grünewald within the artistic and intellectual landscape of his time. By integrating stylistic analysis, documentary research, and an expansive perspective that extends beyond painting to sculpture and religious thought (two of the most relevant results are the discovery of the role of the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider for his training and of Johann von Staupitz, Luther's mentor, for the iconography of the Isenheim Altarpiece), Villata reassesses Grünewald’s possible connections to contemporary artistic centers, offering a new reading of his production and its historical significance. Much more than a monograph, this study challenges prevailing narratives and highlights the necessity of methodological stringency in art historical research. Essential reading for scholars and specialists, it provides an indispensable contribution to Grünewald studies and Renaissance historiography.
1147194027
Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance
An important monograph dedicated to one of the most important protagonists of German Renaissance painting, Mathis Grünewald (c. 1480-1528), in the light of significant archival and iconographic novelties.

The German painter Matthias Grünewald (c. 1480–1528) has remained one of the most enigmatic figures of the Renaissance, his artistic identity defined by stylistic complexity and historical obscurity. In this study, Edoardo Villata re-examines Grünewald’s oeuvre through a critical reassessment of sources, stylistic developments, and the broader network of artistic influences. Moving beyond established interpretations, Villata explores the relationship between documentary research and comparative analysis, situating Grünewald within the artistic and intellectual landscape of his time. By integrating stylistic analysis, documentary research, and an expansive perspective that extends beyond painting to sculpture and religious thought (two of the most relevant results are the discovery of the role of the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider for his training and of Johann von Staupitz, Luther's mentor, for the iconography of the Isenheim Altarpiece), Villata reassesses Grünewald’s possible connections to contemporary artistic centers, offering a new reading of his production and its historical significance. Much more than a monograph, this study challenges prevailing narratives and highlights the necessity of methodological stringency in art historical research. Essential reading for scholars and specialists, it provides an indispensable contribution to Grünewald studies and Renaissance historiography.
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Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance

Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance

by Edoardo Villata
Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance

Grünewald: Painter and Mystic of the German Renaissance

by Edoardo Villata

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Overview

An important monograph dedicated to one of the most important protagonists of German Renaissance painting, Mathis Grünewald (c. 1480-1528), in the light of significant archival and iconographic novelties.

The German painter Matthias Grünewald (c. 1480–1528) has remained one of the most enigmatic figures of the Renaissance, his artistic identity defined by stylistic complexity and historical obscurity. In this study, Edoardo Villata re-examines Grünewald’s oeuvre through a critical reassessment of sources, stylistic developments, and the broader network of artistic influences. Moving beyond established interpretations, Villata explores the relationship between documentary research and comparative analysis, situating Grünewald within the artistic and intellectual landscape of his time. By integrating stylistic analysis, documentary research, and an expansive perspective that extends beyond painting to sculpture and religious thought (two of the most relevant results are the discovery of the role of the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider for his training and of Johann von Staupitz, Luther's mentor, for the iconography of the Isenheim Altarpiece), Villata reassesses Grünewald’s possible connections to contemporary artistic centers, offering a new reading of his production and its historical significance. Much more than a monograph, this study challenges prevailing narratives and highlights the necessity of methodological stringency in art historical research. Essential reading for scholars and specialists, it provides an indispensable contribution to Grünewald studies and Renaissance historiography.

Product Details

ISBN-13: 9788833673349
Publisher: Officina Libraria
Publication date: 12/23/2025
Series: La Grande Officina
Pages: 304
Product dimensions: 7.87(w) x 10.63(h) x (d)

About the Author

Edoardo Villata is associate professor at Northeastern University, Shenyang (Liaoning, China). He is the author of several books and articles on Renaissance artists such as Leonardo da Vinci (2005, 2021), Bramantino (2012), Gaudenzio Ferrari (2004), Pordenone (2016), Macrino d'Alba (2000); he has curated major exhibitions held in Florence, Milan and Rancate (Switzerland).

Table of Contents

Preface, Pantxika Béguerie-De Paepe Preface to the English Edition Introduction Chapter 1 - The Beginning Chapter 2 - Early Maturity Chapter 3 - Isenheim Chapter 4 - Italy Chapter 5 - Luther, the Revolt, the Death Notes Bibliography Index of Names
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