Isabella d’Este

Isabella d’Este was marchioness of Mantua, a leading patron of Renaissance art and one of the most politically capable women of her age. She commissioned works from major artists, built renowned collections, governed during her husband’s absences and negotiated Mantua’s survival amid the Italian Wars.

Sarah Dunant’s The Marchesa places Isabella d'Este within a narrative shaped by family, marriage and personal loyalty, court politics and dynastic power, and art, learning and intellectual life.