Masaccio, The Tribute Money, 1420

This painting by Masaccio truly is a picture that says a thousand words, if not more. Not only is Masaccio's talent depicted in the painting, but the historical background within the painting is shown. Masaccio had become the Renaissance's first master in linear perspective and vanishing point. All the figures in this painting have dimension to them and their legs and feet have shadows and highlights giving them definition. No flat space can be detected in this painting. The light source seems to be coming from the church and making Jesus the brightest central figure in the painting. 

The painting also packs into it three scenes. In the scene in the middle Jesus tells Peter that in order to pay off his taxes all he has to do is go to the river and catch a fish. Toward the left the viewer can see Peter catching fish in order to pay off the tax collector. On the right, Peter pays off the tax collector. The three scenes do not occur in order, traditionally left to right, but middle, left, then right. It is interesting that Masaccio chose to take this perspective on the scene. However, it makes it unique and makes Masaccio identifiable as a painter.