Art historian Dr. Jennifer Moore argues that Renaissance art was fundamentally shaped by advances in mathematics. She notes that painters developed linear perspective using geometric principles, creating the illusion of three-dimensional space on flat surfaces.
Which evidence would most directly support Moore's argument about mathematics influencing art?
Renaissance artists were often wealthy
Many Renaissance paintings depict religious subjects
Painter Filippo Brunelleschi's writings from 1415 explain how he derived vanishing point perspective from Euclidean geometry, and his techniques were then adopted by nearly all major Renaissance painters
Renaissance art is highly valued in modern auctions
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. Primary source showing mathematician-artist connection + widespread adoption.
- Context clues: Moore claims math "shaped" Renaissance art.
- Evidence evaluation: Brunelleschi's writings prove intentional geometry use; widespread adoption proves influence.
- Verify: Historical document + adoption pattern confirms central role of mathematics.
💡 Strategy: Claims about influence need evidence of causation AND spread.
Choice A is incorrect because wealth doesn't address mathematical influence. Choice B is incorrect because subject matter doesn't prove technical methods. Choice D is incorrect because modern value doesn't address Renaissance techniques.