Brunelleschi, Filippo, << `broon` uh LEHS kee, fih LIHP oh >> (1377?-1446), was the first important architect of the Italian Renaissance. He developed techniques for lifting construction materials into position and for creating domes. Brunelleschi designed and supervised the raising of the dome over the Cathedral of Florence. Brunelleschi’s study of classical Roman architecture influenced his many noted buildings in Florence. They include the church of Santo Spirito and the Pazzi Chapel.
Brunelleschi was born in Florence. He began his career as a goldsmith. His interest in mathematics led to his invention of linear perspective, a mathematical system for showing depth on a flat surface. Brunelleschi died on April 16, 1446.
