Masaccio's Holy Trinity and Michelangelo's Last Judgment

Comparative Essay

October 20, 2008

As a newcomer to the study of fine art, I never fully appreciated the deeper meanings associated with this form of expression. In the past, I have always measured paintings by the magnitude of colors, and by objects that were easily identified and explained. However, through my studies of Masaccio’s Holy Trinity and Michelangelo’s Last Judgment; I am finally able to wholly understand the broader implications that are express through fine art. In this essay, it is my desire to briefly compare these two highly-acclaimed pieces, and explain why I feel that one is much more superior in style and overall meaning.

First, lets dissect visually and historically Masaccio’s Holy Trinity. This painting was commissioned in Florence, Italy in 1424. The donors were Lorenzo Lenzi and his wife, and the painting was intended for their personal collection. Masaccio divided his painting into two unequal sections. The larger, top proportion depicts a central image of the crucified Christ; with God the Father appearing from behind and supporting the arms of the cross. On the opposite sides, beneath the cross, stand the Virgin Mary and Saint John, and below the saints (on the next step) are images of the donors kneeling in pray. The second level of the painting appears to recede from the larger, top proportion. It depicts a tomb with skeletal remains, and an inscription that reads, “I was once what you are, and what I am you will become.” It is noteworthy to mention that the illusion of the receding of the tomb, and the projection of the columns were innovation by Masaccio. Also, Masaccio superbly uses mathematical applications to depict space and perspective. He also incorporated strong classical influences by encasing the central figures with projected barrel vaults, corinthian capitals, and ionic columns. The depiction of the donors in Masaccio’s painting, the classical influences, and the notoriety Masaccio received during his life all...