“Lorenzo de’ Medici was the most significant patron of the arts in 15^th-century Italy.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement with respect to the patronage of Lorenzo de’ Medici. To agree with the statement, responses may refer to the “Golden Age of Lorenzo” and make specific reference to artists he patronized like da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli. He was also an important patron of literature, expanding the Medici library established by his father. He supported the development of Humanism, supporting many scholars in this area. His funding of many public projects also enhanced his reputation as a Renaissance man. Candidates may also argue that Ludovico Sforza, who was a patron of da Vinci and others such as Donato Bramante, was also significant. Sforza supported the completion of Milan Cathedral and the universities of both Milan and Pavia, making Milan an important intellectual centre. There may also be some discussion of papal patronage and patronage in other Italian cities such as Venice and Ferrara. Some candidates may also point out that recently, historians have argued that the importance of Lorenzo de’ Medici has been overstated. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that Lorenzo de' Medici was the most significant patron of the arts in 15th-century Italy.