Painting of a woman in ornate clothing and jewelry sitting with a young child on her lap, set against a landscape background.

Eleanora di Toledo

The second Duchess of Florence (1522–62)

Played an important role in consolidating Medici power during a transformative period in Florentine history. Her political skills, savvy economic management, and cultural patronage show how she helped shape the Medici legacy and redefined women’s public roles in Renaissance Florence.

A historic oil portrait of a woman with brown hair and pale skin, wearing an elaborate patterned dress with gold, black, white, and blue designs. She is adorned with multiple pearl necklaces and earrings and is seated outdoors with a landscape in the background. A young child with blond hair, wearing a blue garment with gold accents, is sitting beside her, resting against her shoulder.

Agnolo Bronzino’s portrait of Eleanora di Toledo with her son Giovanni

Learn more about Renaissance Florence