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The Evolution of Portraiture: From Renaissance Masters to AI Creations
Let me take you on a journey — a journey through the history of portraiture. It’s a tale of how humans have always sought to capture their essence, first with brushes and paint, and now with algorithms and data. Portraiture is not just art; it’s a mirror that reflects culture, technology, and our ever-changing view of identity.
The Renaissance: The Birth of Individual Expression
Imagine walking through the grand halls of Renaissance Europe in the 15th century. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were not just creating art; they were reinventing the way humans saw themselves. Portraiture became more than just a decorative practice — it was a celebration of individuality.
Take, for example, the Mona Lisa by da Vinci. Look at her enigmatic smile. It’s not just a face; it’s a story, a mystery that has captivated the world for centuries. Renaissance portraiture introduced techniques like perspective, shadowing (chiaroscuro), and realism that made subjects leap off the canvas. These portraits weren’t just about what someone looked like; they were about who they were.
