The Medici: Culture and Power in Florence with Alessandra Becucci

Learn how the Medici shaped the culture, politics and economics of Florence between the 13th and 18th century with a Florentine art historian. This conversation will explore the impact and influence of this great family that ruled Florence politically during the Renaissance, with a highlight on art and the patronage of renowned artists.

A dynasty of merchants-bankers, the Medici were for centuries the most influential family in Florence. As experienced members of the Republican government of the town and as clever businessmen, they contributed to the political and economic primacy of Florence. They were part of the Florentine socio-cultural elite and as a result they sponsored and collaborated with the most important artists of the Renaissance, including Donatello, Brunelleschi, Botticelli, Signorelli and Michelangelo.

Much of Florence and its history was shaped by the Medici family between the fifteenth century and 1747, when the last member of the family died heirless. Led by Alessandra Becucci, explore how the Medicis used art and patronage to shape their image of cultural and political leaders and how, while doing so, contributed to make Florence one of the protagonists of European culture for centuries to come.

Born and raised in Florence, Alessandra has a degree in art history from the University of Florence with a specialization in seventeenth-century painting. She obtained an MRes from the European University Institute in Florence, where she defended her Ph.D in history, focusing on the patronage of Tuscan nobility in Europe during the seventeenth century. She has been teaching art history and Italian for several years in various schools and institutions in Florence.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.