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Portrait of the artists sister in the garb of a nun, 1551 (oil on canvas)
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Portrait of the artists sister in the garb of a nun, 1551 (oil on canvas)
SOU79749 Portrait of the artists sister in the garb of a nun, 1551 (oil on canvas) by Anguissola, Sofonisba (c.1532-1625); 68.5x53.3 cm; Southampton City Art Gallery, Hampshire, UK; (add.info.: Women painters were not unknown in 16th century Italy but most were the daughters of established artists and Anguissolas were Genoese nobility. It was almost unknown for a woman to train professionally in an artists studio and her success helped to make painting a socially acceptable career for a woman. Her reputation was such that she was invited to be a lady in waiting, court painter and teacher to Isabel de Valois, wife of King Philip II of Spain.
This is the earliest known work by the artist and is thought to show her sister Elena who became a nun.); eSouthhampton City Art Gallery; Italian, out of copyright
Media ID 23371156
© Southhampton City Art Gallery / Bridgeman Images
Anguissola Carmelite Convent Female Artist Genoa Genoese Habit Italian Renaissance Order Prayer Book Sister Veil Vows
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases "Portrait of the artist's sister in the garb of a nun" by Sofonisba Anguissola, an Italian Renaissance painter. Created in 1551 using oil on canvas, this artwork measures 68.5x53.3 cm and is housed at Southampton City Art Gallery in Hampshire, UK. During the 16th century, it was uncommon for women to receive professional training in an artist's studio. However, Anguissola defied societal norms and became one of the few successful female painters of her time. Her noble background as a member of Genoese nobility further set her apart from other women artists. Anguissola's talent and reputation were so remarkable that she was not only invited to be a lady-in-waiting but also served as court painter and teacher to Isabel de Valois, wife of King Philip II of Spain. This early work is believed to depict her sister Elena, who chose a life dedicated to God as a nun. Through this portrait, Anguissola skillfully captures both the religious devotion and inner strength embodied by her sister within the context of their Christian faith. The painting beautifully portrays Elena wearing traditional habit attire associated with Carmelite nuns while holding a prayer book. Anguissola's pioneering success paved the way for future generations of female artists and helped make painting an acceptable career choice for women during that era. This exquisite piece serves as a testament to her exceptional artistic abilities and lasting impact on art history.
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