Francesco di Antonio del Chierico

Francesco di Antonio del Chierico was a manuscript illuminator of the early Renaissance period in Florence. Francesco began as a goldsmith before changing occupations to become a successful illustrator. He was one of the pupils of Fra Angelico and became famous for being Lorenzo de' Medici's favorite illuminator. He worked under some of the most prestigious patrons of the time, including Lorenzo de' Medici, Piero de’ Cosimo de' Medici, Cosimo il Vecchio, and Vespasiano da Bisticci. He gained a reputation for his well executed illustrations in varying types of books ranging in size from small books of hours to large choir books. His illustrations often included intricate floral arrangements, putti, and candelabras. He decorated both the borders of manuscripts and full pages.
Francesco's works are often compared to those of the Pollaiuolo brothers and Domenico Veneziano. He is most recognized for his work on the Disputationes Camaldulenses by Cristoforo Landino and in that manuscript, particularly the two profiles of Federico da Montefeltro and an unidentified figure.