FONTANA, Lavinia
(b. 1552, Bologna, d. 1614, Roma)

Self-Portrait in a Studio

1579
Oil on copper, diameter 16 cm
Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence

The artist depicted herself in a studio, preparing to draw from figurines using metal-point and coated paper. Her opulent costume tells of her success and her noble clientele. Fontana learned her trade in her father's workshop and married one of his assistants, who then assisted her. Her partner also participated in domestic tasks, which were many - the couple had eleven children.