Call for Papers

Cartography, networking at the arts in fifteenth century Florence

Session at the Renaissance Society of America Annual Meeting 2014

This session will focus on the production and circulation of maps in
fifteenth-century Florence. While recognising the importance of maps as
tools of knowledge, the intention is to challenge academic boundaries in
the study of cartography by exploring the links between map making and
artistic practices such as painting, printmaking and drawing.

While investigating the identity of map makers (artists or scientists?)
and their provenance (Florence, Italy or Europe?) the panels aims at
evaluating how the exchange of maps and the travel of map makers
fostered communication, friendships and networking between Florence, the
Italian peninsula, and other European countries.

Topics might include, but are not limited to:

- the map maker identikit
- map making as an artistic practice
- relationship between maps, prints, drawings, and manuscripts
- circulation of maps between Florence, Venice and other Italian centers
- maps as tools to foster communication between Florence and Europe
- patron-client structure: commissioning and paying for maps.
- the role of maps in Florence’s intellectual circles and religious
groups

Paper title, a 150-word abstract, keywords, and a 300-word CV should be
send to Irene Mariani (irenemariani85gmail.com) or Natalie Lussey
(n.lusseygmail.com), The University of Edinburgh, by May 20.