Portrait of Alfonso d'Este Duke of Ferrara 1495 - 1865

This is an oil on canvas painting of Alfonso d'Este Duke of Ferrara made by an anonymous artist. Let’s consider the identity of Alfonso, a man born into privilege during the Italian Renaissance; a period of immense artistic and cultural flourishing, but also rigid social hierarchies. The painting performs the kind of power and masculinity expected of a Duke. His gaze, though slightly averted, conveys authority. The darkness that surrounds him serves to highlight his face, and the delicate gold chain draws the eye, subtly communicating his wealth and status. But who was the artist? Their anonymity speaks volumes about the art world at the time. Often, the artists who created these images were considered artisans rather than celebrated individuals. Consider how this artwork invites us to reflect on the dynamics of power, visibility, and the stories that remain untold.