Allegory of Calumny: Changing the Canon of Art History

The video explores the often-overlooked Renaissance painting 'The Allegory of Calumny' by Sandro Botticelli. It discusses the painting's historical context, its connection to the lost work of Greek painter Appelli's, and the revival of Greek art through humanism. The video provides a detailed description of the painting's characters and symbolism, highlighting its representation of false accusations and the contrast between truth and remorse. The video concludes by inviting viewers to reflect on the painting's unanswered questions and its significance in Renaissance art.

Which painting is highlighted as a lesser-known masterpiece of Renaissance art in the video?

• The Mona Lisa

• The Sistine Chapel Ceiling

• The Allegory of Calumny

• The Birth of Venus

Who was the Greek painter whose lost works inspired Botticelli's 'The Allegory of Calumny'?

• Michelangelo

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Apelles

• Raphael

What role did Lucian's writings play in the revival of Apelles' allegory?

• They were only known in the Byzantine Empire.

• They were destroyed during the Renaissance.

• They were translated and inspired new artworks.

• They were ignored by Renaissance artists.

In Botticelli's painting, which character is depicted as leading Calumny?

• Remorse

• Envy

• Truth

• Ignorance

What question does the video pose about the character of Truth in the painting?

• Why is Truth depicted as old and dressed in layers?

• Why is Truth pointing downward?

• Why is Truth pointing upward?

• Why is Truth leading Calumny?