Explain why artistic patronage by wealthy families was a new concept during the Renaissance.(1 point)

Question

Responses

Before the Renaissance, it was usually universities—not families—that commissioned art.
Before the Renaissance, it was usually universities—not families—that commissioned art.

Before the Renaissance, no one commissioned art.
Before the Renaissance, no one commissioned art.

Before the Renaissance, it was usually individuals—not families—who commissioned art.
Before the Renaissance, it was usually individuals—not families—who commissioned art.

Before the Renaissance, it was usually churches—not families—that commissioned art.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

"Before the Renaissance, it was usually churches—not families—that commissioned art."

During the Renaissance, the emergence of wealthy families as prominent patrons of the arts marked a significant shift in artistic patronage. Prior to this period, the majority of art was commissioned by religious institutions, such as the church, which dominated the culture and funding of art production. The rise of influential families, such as the Medici in Florence, allowed for a more diverse range of themes and subjects in art, as they sought to display their wealth, power, and cultural sophistication, thus leading to a new era of secular art and broader artistic expression.