Lucrezia Tornabuoni

Domenico Ghirlandaio, Lucrezia Tornabuoni, c. 1475, tempera and oil on poplar panel.

Click here for fullscreen

Lucrezia Tornabuoni was born in Florence, Italy on June 22nd, 1427. Her father, Francesco Tornabuoni, was a member of a prominent noble family, and her mother, Francesca Pitti, was the daughter of another powerful local family. In 1444, Lucrezia married Piero di Cosimo de Medici, son of Cosimo de Medici, a wealthy banker and statesman from Florence. Her marriage helped seal the alliance between the families. 

Lucrezia was a well-educated woman for her time. She was capable in mathematics and finances, well-versed in literature, and read many texts in Latin and Greek. Lucrezia was also notably wise and astute in political matters. After Piero took over the government in 1464, his gout kept him confined to bed. Thus, Lucrezia took charge of political matters. Her advice was sought by many different people, who she received. 

Lucrezia demonstrated that women were capable of participating in social, financial, and political life during this time period. Her portrait solidifies her signifigance and memorializes her achievements. 

By: María