Italian, 1530–1625
Sofonisba Anguissola was an Italian Renaissance painter, born in 1530 in Cremona, Italy, and she died in 1625 in Palermo. She is recognized as one of the first known female artists in Western art history and played a significant role in the development of portrait painting. Anguissola received her early training in painting from her father, Amilcare Anguissola, and later studied under the prominent artist Bernardino Campi. Her work gained attention in the royal courts of Europe, particularly through her portraits of the Spanish royal family, including King Philip II of Spain. Major works include 'Self-Portrait at the Easel' and 'The Chess Game,' which showcase her skill in capturing the personality and character of her subjects. Anguissola's style is characterized by a blend of realism and psychological depth, and she is significant for paving the way for future generations of female artists.
13 artworks
