Vitale da Bologna (1289 or 1309 – 1369): The Maestro of Bolognese Gothic Vitale da Bologna, born around 1289 or 1309 in Bologna, Italy, stands as a cornerstone figure within the burgeoning Early Renaissance school of painting centered on his hometown. Initially known as Vitale d’Aimo de’ Cavalli – later adopting the more familiar Vidolino and Vitale degli Equi – he emerged from a milieu steeped in artistic innovation, inheriting stylistic traits from the preceding Gothic tradition while simultaneously embracing nascent humanist ideals. His prolific output spanned across Bologna, Pomposa Abbe…