Portinari Altarpiece Quiz

What is the primary reason the Portinari Altarpiece caused a stir in Florence?

• It was the first painting to use oil paints.

• It was painted by an unknown artist.

• It was larger than any other painting in the city.

• It contrasted with the Italian Renaissance style.

Who commissioned the Portinari Altarpiece?

• The King of Italy

• The Medici family

• The Pope

• A local church

In the painting, how are the Portinari family members depicted in relation to their patron saints?

• Standing and equal in size

• Larger and more prominent

• In the background

• Smaller and kneeling

What is the central theme of the Portinari Altarpiece's central panel?

• The Resurrection

• The Nativity and Adoration of the Shepherds

• The Crucifixion

• The Last Supper

Which flower in the painting symbolizes Christ's future suffering?

• Columbine

• Violet

• Red lily

• Iris

How does the Northern Renaissance approach to naturalism differ from the Italian Renaissance?

• It involves close observation of specific details.

• It emphasizes a unified space.

• It uses bright, unrealistic colors.

• It focuses on abstract forms.

What is the significance of the sheaf of wheat in the painting?

• It is purely decorative.

• It is a tribute to the Medici family.

• It symbolizes the body of Christ.

• It represents the harvest season.

What does the Corinthian column next to the Virgin Mary symbolize?

• Strength and power

• Christ's resurrection

• The church's authority

• Mary's purity

How are the three shepherds depicted differently from other figures in the painting?

• They are larger than the other figures.

• They are portrayed with human-like qualities.

• They are depicted with a sense of nobility.

• They are shown as angels.

What does the harp above the doorway in the background symbolize?

• The harmony of the universe

• The music of the angels

• The joy of the nativity

• King David and Christ's ancestry