Name _____________________________ Class _________________ Date __________________
Biography
Renaissance and Reformation
Sofonisba Anguissola
c. 1532–1625
WHY SHE MADE HISTORY Sofonisba
Rabatti-Domingie / akg-images
Anguissola became one of the first women
artists to gain recognition for her work. At
the time she lived, many people believed
that painting was not an appropriate field for
women. However, Anguissola’s success
paved the way for other women artists that
followed.
As you read the biography below, think about how
Sofonisba Anguissola showed courage in breaking
down barriers for women artists.
Sofonisba Anguissola was born in Cremona, Italy, around 1532. She had
five sisters and one brother. Her father was a nobleman who provided his
daughters with a humanist education. As the oldest daughter, Anguissola
studied painting with several well-respected teachers. She then used her
training to mentor her sisters. In fact, four of her sisters also became artists.
Anguissola’s father wanted to help her gain recognition, so he sent her
work to a number of scholars and artists. One artist was Renaissance
painter Michelangelo. He was impressed by Anguissola’s work, but he
challenged her to branch out. He suggested that she paint even more
difficult subjects. While highly regarded by some, others still hesitated to
praise a woman artist. Some people credited her teacher or her father for
her artistic success. Despite these obstacles, however, Anguissola’s work
became famous. She sold her paintings to many prominent individuals.
Anguissola traveled to Spain in 1559 to become a court painter to Philip
II and Queen Isabella of Valois. There, she instructed the queen and two of
the queen’s daughters in the techniques of painting. While in this position
until 1573, she painted many portraits of members of the royal family.
As one of the first woman artists to gain notice, Anguissola brought
many new ideas to painting. She did not imitate the subjects of male
painters of the time. Instead, she focused on scenes of everyday domestic
life. Her paintings told stories, a style that later became known as the
“conversation piece.” Anguissola’s painting Three of the Artist’s Sisters
Playing Chess also proved notable. It showed educated and intelligent girls
involved in an activity commonly thought of as a game for boys.
Anguissola’s self-portraits usually showed her wearing a simple
hairstyle and plain clothing, with little jewelry. This contrasted with the
Original content Copyright © by Holt, Rinehart and Winston. Additions and changes to the original content are the responsibility of the instructor.
Full Survey Chapter 15
Modern Era Chapter 1
5
Renaissance and Reformation
Name _____________________________ Class _________________ Date __________________
Biography
Renaissance and Reformation
elegant styles typically worn by women of the time. In this way, she
showed herself to be a serious, mature person. Background objects such as
books and musical instruments hinted at her knowledge of culture.
Anguissola also helped inspire and encourage future women artists. She
served as a role model for other successful women artists of her time, such
as Lavinia Fontana. She also supported arts education for young women.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN?
1. Recall What did Sofonisba Anguissola do during her time as the court painter of
Spain?
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
2. Cause and Effect How do you think people’s views about women and artists during
the Renaissance affected Anguissola’s work?
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____________________________________________________________________
ACTIVITY
Using print or online resources, work with a partner to create a brochure
that describes one of Sofonisba Anguissola’s paintings. Your brochure
should explain what is shown in the painting and discuss the importance of
the work.
Original content Copyright © by Holt, Rinehart and Winston. Additions and changes to the original content are the responsibility of the instructor.
Full Survey Chapter 15
Modern Era Chapter 1
6
Renaissance and Reformation