Learning about historical document art

It’s now been nearly a year since I started studying illumination styles for SCA awards. Rather than try multiple styles, I’ve decided to try to master one first. My focus has been 15th century Italian as it depicts the most realistic human forms, and uses the most painterly elements. Both of which most closely matches my fantasy and portrait experience.

A month ago I was assigned a scroll for a woman with a Roman persona. In looking at Roman-themed 15th Century Italian style, I stumbled upon the Farnese Hours illustrated by Giulio Clovio. So I found several source images and began the sketch. The attached images show the ‘work in progress’ to completion.

Concept sketch – artwork shows the recipient’s device, and has a miniature of the recipient and her husband on horses. The recipient’s dog is also shown. Background is showing an italian landscape from the Farnese Hours.

Drawing is inked and calligraphy added

WIP

WIP – I decided to follow the inspiration for the Farnese Hours, rather than copy the background. Clovio painted scenes from his home country to illustrate the story, so for my piece I painted a scene of Mt. Hood, which is a view I see every day.

Final artwork

Detail