Giotto di Bondone, often simply referred to as Giotto, was an Italian painter and architect from Florence during the late Middle Ages. He is recognized as a pivotal figure in the transition from Medieval Art to Renaissance Art, particularly noted for his innovations in the representation of human figures and space.
Giotto was born around 1266 or 1276 in Colle di Vespignano, near Florence. According to legend, he was discovered by the painter Cimabue while drawing on a rock with charcoal. Cimabue was so impressed by Giotto's talent that he took him on as an apprentice. This story, however, is considered apocryphal by many historians. Giotto's early works show the influence of Cimabue, but he soon developed his own distinctive style.
Beyond painting, Giotto was also involved in architecture. He designed the Campanile of Florence Cathedral, known for its Gothic style with an innovative approach to decoration that reflected his painterly techniques.
Giotto's work had a profound influence on subsequent generations of artists. He is often credited with being a precursor to the Renaissance due to his naturalistic approach and his impact on the development of Western art. Artists like Masaccio and Michelangelo were inspired by his ability to convey depth and emotion through painting.