Which artist is known for creating the stylistic foundations of Western painting?

Masaccio is known for creating the stylistic foundations of Western painting primarily due to his pioneering use of linear perspective and his emphasis on the naturalism of figures, which marked a significant departure from the flat and decorative style of medieval art. His work in the early Renaissance, especially noted in pieces like "The Tribute Money" and "The Holy Trinity," demonstrated a three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface, allowing for a more realistic representation of human figures and their interactions within space. This approach influenced countless artists and became a cornerstone in the development of painting techniques that emphasized depth, proportion, and realism in subsequent styles and movements.

Masaccio's focus on the relationship between figures and their environment effectively laid the groundwork for many future advancements in Western art, including those by the High Renaissance masters, solidifying his role as a foundational figure in the evolution of painting.