During Sandro Botticelli's lifetime (1444/45-1510), the influence of hisart scarcely reached beyond his native Florence, and following his deathhe was soon forgotten. He was rediscovered in the 19th century by thePre-Raphaelites. Since then, Botticelli has ranked among the greatest ofthe Renaissance artists. In the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, paintings such as 'Primavera' and 'TheBirth of Venus' belong to the foremost attractions for tourists and artlovers. His captivating figures of women, his intimate portrayals of theMadonna and Child, and the angel-like beauty of his adolescents are famousthe world over today.