Sofonisba+Anguissola

Sofonisba Anguissola (1532-1625) was a female Renaissance artist born to a noble family in sixteenth century Northern Italy (Cremona to be exact). Her wealthy father paid for a high quality education focused on the humanities, and eventually she became a well known portrait painter who was especially notable for her miniatures. In 1560, Anguissola became the lady-in-waiting and court painter for the queen of Spain. She kept this position for 20 years, and many of the works she produced during this time period were even commended by male artists including Vasari and Anthony Van Eyck (rare for the time given the lower status of women). Though many of her Spanish works were destroyed in a palace fire later on, the ones that remain show exceptional skill that was largely unprecedented for female artists.

Anguissola's talent and ability led the way to more women being accepted as legitimate and capable artists.

Self Portrait, 1556

Portrait of Queen Elisabeth of Spain

Self Portrait, 1610