History of master copies. Why do we do it?

A look at the history and use of master copies including a look at the masters sketchbooks

To understand why we study the works of the old masters, it is important to first understand the history of artist master copies. Artist master copies have been used for centuries to teach art students and apprentices the techniques, styles, and nuances of the old masters.

The concept of making artist master copies can be traced back to the Italian Renaissance when artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci created works of art that were admired and sought after by aspiring artists. Aspiring artists would travel from all over to study these works of art and emulate the techniques of the Masters.

Consider, The Renaissance and Philosophy of Humanism changed the view of the Artist. It was the age of uplifting the skills and artistry of man. No longer viewed as a means to an end, a painting viewed in the same vein as getting our electric box repaired today. The Old Masters were rock stars with a following of young hopefuls. In order to facilitate this process, many of the old masters would leave their original works of art in the hands of their apprentices and students, allowing them to make copies of the originals.

In the centuries since the Renaissance, artist master copies have been used in many different ways. In the 19th century, the practice of making artist master copies was used to create copies of Old Master paintings for art galleries and museums. This allowed art galleries and museums to showcase the works of the old masters without having to purchase the originals. The practice was also used to create prints and lithographs of the old masters' works, which could then be sold to the public.

Today, artist master copies are used to teach art students and apprentices the techniques, styles, and nuances of the old masters. By studying the techniques, styles, and nuances of the old masters, aspiring artists are able to develop their own unique styles and techniques, while also paying homage to the old masters. By studying the works of the old masters, aspiring artists can gain insight into the techniques and styles used to create some of the greatest works of art in history.

Ron Lemon speaks to his experience creating Master studies in the article SOME THOUGHTS ON MASTER STUDIES