Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture

Ross King

Meeting: November 30 @ 6-7:30 PM

Location: Kelly-McKenna Gallery, 1308 Third Avenue, Spring Lake, NJ

Wine Selection: Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2021

Summary: Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture recounts the tale of a Renaissance mastermind who harnessed human ingenuity, raw materials, and even the fundamental laws of nature to construct an architectural marvel, Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, that still captivates us today. Ross King, an acclaimed and widely-read author, skillfully narrates this compelling saga within the backdrop of plagues, conflicts, political rivalries, and the intellectual fervor of Renaissance Florence, giving life to the dome's construction in a fifteenth-century account that resonates powerfully in the twenty-first century.

Wine: Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2021 is ruby red in color with purplish highlights. On the nose, fresh citrusy notes of bitter oranges arise together with fruity hints of plums. The delicate bouquet is completed with floral notes of hyacinth blossoms and spicy hints of unsweetened cocoa powder. A mouth filling entry on the palate is sustained by lively freshness, together with supple tannins, leads to a flavorful and pleasant finish.

The Antinori family, an ancient and highly esteemed lineage, boasts a rich history in the world of wine. Hailing from Florence, their roots in the city stretch back to the early 13th century, when they relocated from Calenzano, a quaint town situated between Florence and Prato. Initially, the Antinori family engaged in trade, becoming members of the Guild of Silk Weavers in 1285, and later, the Guild of Bankers, thanks in part to their expanding business ventures in Bruges and Lyons across Europe. In addition to their trade, they also dabbled in winemaking and trading, a pursuit that would eventually take center stage. By 1385, Giovanni di Piero Antinori was officially registered with the Guild of Winemakers. Over time, wine production and sales grew to become a cornerstone of the family's endeavors, to the extent that by the 16th century, their wines were renowned not only in Italy but also among discerning clients throughout Europe.

About Art Book Club: We meet monthly at Kelly-McKenna Gallery to discuss all topics art, art history, and design. 

You can purchase our monthly reading selections here at Thunder Road Books; (973) 436-0914.

Our monthly wine selection is available here at Bottle Shop of Spring Lake; (732) 449-5525