Sofonisba Anguissola

Sofonisba Anguissola was a female Italian Renaissance painter who was born to a relatively poor noble family. She received a well-rounded education and chose to become an artist. Her apprenticeship with local painters set a precedent for other female artists to be accepted as students of Art.  She traveled to Rome and was introduced to Michelangelo who quickly recognized her talent. Sofonisba has painted for the Duke of Alba, Spanish Queen Elizabeth of Valois as well as other Royals. She became the official court painting for King Phillip II.