Lavinia Fontana was a renowned Italian painter, born on August 24, 1552, in Bologna, Italy. She is regarded as the first woman artist to work within the same sphere as her male counterparts, outside a court or convent. Lavinia Fontana was the first woman artist to paint female nudes and was the main breadwinner of a family of 13.

Early Life and Training

Lavinia Fontana was born into a family of artists. Her father, Prospero Fontana, was a prominent painter of the School of Bologna. She received her training from her father and continued the family business, which was typical at the time. Her earliest known work, "Monkey Child", was painted in 1575 at the age of 23.

Artistic Style and Notable Works

Lavinia Fontana's artistic style was initially similar to her father's, but she gradually adopted the Carracciesque style with strong quasi-Venetian coloring. She was known for painting upper-class residents of Bologna, notably noblewomen. Her relationships with female clients were often unusually warm, and multiple women who sat for portraits painted by Lavinia Fontana, such as the Duchess of Sora Constanza Sforza Boncompagni, later served as namesakes or godmothers for her children. Notable works by Lavinia Fontana include "Double Marriage Portrait also known as Self-Portrait of Lavinia Fontana", which is a masterpiece that showcases the elegance and sophistication of 16th-century art. This painting can be found in the Zaragoza Museum in Zaragoza, Spain.

Influence and Legacy

Lavinia Fontana's influence on the art world is significant. She was elected into the Accademia di San Luca of Rome and was the recipient of numerous honors, including a bronze portrait medallion cast in 1611 by sculptor and architect Felice Antonio Casoni. Her self-portrait, which belongs to Count Zappi of Imola, is perhaps her masterpiece, striking a balance between presenting the artist as a distinguished lady and as a professional artist.

• Lavinia Fontana's biography on WahooArt.com provides more information about her life and work.
• The greatest artists painters of all time can be found on WahooArt.com, including Lavinia Fontana.
• Lavinia Fontana's Double Marriage Portrait is a notable work that showcases her skill and elegance.

Important to note that Lavinia Fontana's legacy continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike, and her contributions to the art world remain significant. Her work can be found in various museums and collections, including the Zaragoza Museum and the Accademia di San Luca in Rome.