Welcome to a place where we explore the beauty of our Catholic heritage through art, story, and hands-on activities. Today, we’re journeying into the groundbreaking world of Giotto di Bondone, the artist whose revolutionary frescoes and mosaics paved the way for the Renaissance. This unit is one of ten I planned and used with my son last year in our picture study lessons. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, a Sunday-school teacher, or simply someone who delights in sacred art, this companion to picture study will guide you in discovering God’s truth shining through Giotto’s brushstrokes.
Why Study Giotto di Bondone?
Giotto (c. 1267–1337) dared to bring emotion, depth, and realism into sacred scenes. His work marks a watershed between medieval stylization and Renaissance naturalism, teaching children that faith and art grow together when we look with both heart and mind. By studying Giotto, children learn:
- Humanity in Holiness: How genuine emotion deepens our connection to Gospel events.
- Innovations in Space: Early experiments with perspective and three-dimensional form.
- Stories in Color: Vivid narrative scenes that invite reflection on Scripture.
The Four Key Works
Below are four masterpieces by Giotto. Each link opens a high-resolution, public-domain image you can download and print for your family’s picture study.
Lamentation (The Mourning of Christ)
Date: c. 1305 — Fresco, Arena Chapel, Padua
Image Download:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamentation_(The_Mourning_of_Christ)
More Details:
https://www.teacherweena.com/post/giotto-di-bondoni-lamentation-the-mourning-of-christ
Navicella (The Large Boat)
Date: c. 1298–1300 — Mosaic fragments, Old St. Peter’s Basilica (Rome)
Image Download:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navicella_(mosaic)
More Details:
https://www.teacherweena.com/post/giotto-di-bondoni-navicella-the-large-boat
The Adoration of the Magi
Date: c. 1304–1306 — Fresco, Arena Chapel, Padua
Image Download:
https://uploads7.wikiart.org/images/giotto/adoration-of-the-magi.jpg
More Details:
https://www.teacherweena.com/post/copy-of-giotto-di-bondoni-the-adoration-of-the-magi
Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple
Date: c. 1304–1306 — Fresco, Arena Chapel, Padua
Image Download:
More Details:
https://www.teacherweena.com/post/giotto-di-bondoni-the-presentation-of-the-virgin-in-the-temple
How to Use This Picture Study
- Print & Prepare: Download each Giotto image and print at A4 or letter size.
- Gather & Read: Show one painting at a time and read the corresponding Gospel passage.
- Reflect & Discuss: Ask open-ended questions –
- “What emotions do you see on their faces?”
- “How does Giotto use space to draw your eye?”
- Create & Respond: Invite your children to sketch their own version or compose a brief prayer inspired by the scene.
Extend Your Learning: Picture Study Curriculum for Grades 3–6
If you’re ready to deepen the adventure, explore our full Catholic Picture Study Curriculum designed for Grades 3–6:
- Explore weekly lessons on six more master artists
- Connect to history, literature, and theology with cross-curricular ties
- Enjoy printable guides, reflection questions, and creative projects
🔗 Learn more on the blog:
http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2025/04/catholic-picture-study-curriculum-for.html
🔗 Get the complete curriculum:
https://www.teacherweena.com/product-page/catholic-picture-study-curriculum-grades-3-6
Free Bonus: Wonder & Wisdom Thinking Routines
Elevate your art study with Wonder & Wisdom, a free companion of Catholic-centered thinking tools that guide students to observe deeply, reflect prayerfully, and express creatively. Perfect for enriching any picture study or Scripture lesson.
🔗 Download your free copy here:
https://www.teacherweena.com/projects-8
May Giotto’s pioneering spirit inspire your next art lesson—and may every brushstroke lead your family closer to the beauty of God’s story.
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