Women, Art and Architectural Patronage in Renaissance Mantua

A groundbreaking study reveals the significant religious patronage role of Isabella d'Este, challenging her portrayal as solely a secular patron. Sally Hickson's research, combining archival analysis and visual object examination, uncovers the influence of female mysticism on Renaissance Mantua's art and architecture. It highlights the lesser-known contributions of Margherita Cantelma and the cultural impact of nuns like Livia Gonzaga, offering new insights into sacred patronage and devotional practices among women in late 15th to early 16th century Mantua.

Hickson, S. A. (2016). Women, Art and Architectural Patronage in Renaissance Mantua. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315546650