A stunning miniature by Lavinia Fontana, Italy's first professional female artist, will be showcased at Strawberry Hill House. Attributed to the 16th-century artist, the portrait of a noblewoman adorned in ornate attire was rediscovered in Texas, where it was linked to Fontana's work due to characteristic stylistic features. Curator Aoife Brady confirms the painting's attribution based on detailed elements and its brushwork, representing a remarkable return of artistic heritage to its historic setting after almost two centuries.
Brady recounts, "Upon receiving photographs of the painting, I immediately recognised a number of characteristics associated with Fontana's portraiture, in the style of the figure's face, and her clothing and accessories..."
The significance of this miniature lies not only in its artistic merit but also in its remarkable journey back to a historic home after nearly 200 years.
Cox states, "It was offered unattributed as part of a group, but certain aspects led me to believe it was by Fontana, the Bolognese painter..."
Collection
[
|
...
]