Ruskin did "The Grand Tour" in Italy and he was much taken with Florence and Giotto's work in particular ...if I can find a definite link I will get back to you.
Having said that he did waffle a lot about various artists and Turner was another favourite of his ..but again can't find anything definite ....sorry .
Yes I see what you mean. I can't tie it down to anyone definate either. I will have to keep looking. Thanks anyway you have given me a good bit of direction . I won't give up yet.