Why are some artists only known only by their first name?

Question

Leonardo Da Vinci we know, but what about Michelangelo Buonarroti or Raphael Santi? Cher LaPiere? Okay, so sticking to the Renaissance - why is this?

Answer 1

Well some are known by their surnames such as da Vinci Caravaggio and other by nicknames such as Botticelli. It's a more modem concept rather than a Renaissance one. Sometimes in academic writings, names are shortened to aid the writing process and they just stick. For instance is you were writing an essay about Leonardo da Vinci, you would mention the artist's name in full and then refer to him throughout the essay as Leonardo or da Vinci. I believe it's as simple as that and some of these shortened names just stuck.

Answer 2

At some point they become so renowned that you only need to mention their first name for people to know who you speaking about. At some point it becomes a matter of respect!

Especially with people like Michelangelo, Raphael, etc.

Sometimes it is infamy, and you can get by on simply a middle initial, like W :(

Answer 3

I work in a collaboration with another artist - its much easier to remember 2 peoples names when they are reduced to one name each - sounds better and looks better on CV's, invitations, business cards, etc. Example: Gilbert and George, Chadwick & Spector, Christo & Jean-Claude.... can't offer suggestions for individual artists that do this - but sure helps for collaborative groups.

Answer 4

So moron girls named Katie can ask stupid questions of strangers on the internet.

Answer 5

What more do you need to know other than "Cher"?