Sandro Botticelli (1445-1510). Also known under the name Alessandro di Mariano di Vanni Filipepi. Botticelli was an Italian Renaissance painter from the Florentine school. His work belongs to the best in the early Renaissance. Botticelli took his surname allegedly from his brother’s nickname (who was as rotund as a tub – botticelli). His artistic career likely began in the goldsmith’s workshop of his brother Antonio. Botticelli was later entrusted by his family to the care of Filippo Lippi, a renowned painter and knowledgeable monk. As a renowned artist, Botticelli gained friends and benefactors from the most important Florentine families. He worked mainly for the Medici family. In 1481, together with another major Florentine painter, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Botticelli was summoned to Rome to participate in the decoration of the Sistine Chapel. In 1491, they were both appointed to a jury that was to decide on the contract for the construction of the facade of Florence cathedral. At the end of his life, he evidently worked under the influence of Savonarol’s fiery sermons, exclusively painting Christian themes. Among his most famous works are The Birth of Venus and Spring (Primavera) . Botticelli never married – he reportedly struggled with unrequited love for Simonet Vespucci, who was to be the model for his Venus. As his dying wish, he desired to be buried at her feet. His wish was fulfilled.