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Donato Bramante - Architect

Dennis S Oniszczak
Donato Bramante 15th Century Architect
515-517 (1972)

Donato Bramante was a major celebrity as an architect of the 15th century. Bramante was one of the only artists of his day who was said to be as talented as the ancient architects. Only Raphael was said to rival the talent of Bramante.

Not much is known about Bramante's early life. He was born around the mid 1400’s near the city of Urbino. He trained there as a painter. Bramante later made his way to Milan where he turned his attention to architecture. In Milan, he met and learned from other masters of the High Renaissance, including Leonardo da Vinci.
Church Of Santa Maria Near San Satiro
Optical Illusion Of The Narrow Vault Over The East Altar
Bramante's first major architectural commission was a church in Milan called Santa Maria near San Satiro. His task was to transform a simple rectangular building into a church shaped like a cross. Bramante's design embraced many elements of Roman architecture. Inside the structure, he placed a barrel vault and topped it with the first coffered dome (individually set panels) that had not been built since the fall of Rome. One of the most impressive features was the narrow vault over the east altar. Bramante created a stunning optical illusion. The vault looks deep, but it is actually just the painted ceiling that creates that impression.

Bramante eventually moved to Rome where he had greater access to Roman ruins. This is where developed his style. Around 1500, he designed the cloisters for Santa Maria del Pace, and based the design on the Colosseum.

Bramante caught the attention of the Pope Julius II. It was Pope Julius II who hired Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bramante to create an entirely new artistic program for the Vatican. Bramante became the Pope's favored architect, and was tasked with redesigning a large portion of Rome.

Bramante died in 1514, but his reputation as one of Italy's most ambitious architects continued. In an early 16th century play, Bramante is seen continuing his work even after death, explaining to Saint Peter his plans for an urban renewal of Heaven.

References:
• Famous Architects, "Donato Bramante"
• Study.com, "Donato Bramante"

Article Link:
• Anonymous, “Donato Bramante:” Vatican Notes, Vol. 20, No. 6, pp. 1-3 (1972)