Commission (art)

Throughout history, it has been common for rulers and governments to commission public art as a means of demonstrating power and wealth, or even for specific propaganda purposes.

Despite this, the sheer amount of surviving artworks commissioned at the height of the Roman Empire testify to the rulers' view that art could influence public opinion.

During the Renaissance, visual art flourished in the cities of Italy due to the patronage of wealthy merchants and government officials, such as Cesare Borgia.

The harrowing memorial has brought other commissions to Gillespie, who has created companion sculptures for the cities of Toronto[4] and Boston.

In this way, the gallery or dealer is not only the middleman but obliquely takes the role of "patron" in that it provides representation, housing of artworks, marketing and income for the artist.