In 1303 Giotto then considered the preeminent painter in Italy was commissioned to paint the Arena Chapel in Padua. The resulting Chapel and its panels detailing the history birth life and death of Christ rank among the greatest artworks ever created. John Ruskin 18191900 redefined art criticism in the 19th century through his attention to detail his playful and engaging prose and the conviction with which he discussed the subjects that mattered most to him. Here Ruskin examines Giottos panels