Minerva Dressing

"Minerva Dressing" by Lavinia Fontana exemplifies her skill in portraiture within the Mannerism style of the late Renaissance. The painting depicts the goddess Minerva in an intimate moment, showcasing Fontana’s pioneering approach to painting female figures, including possibly the first female nude in Western art, though this remains debated. Trained by her father, Prospero Fontana, she balanced her career—relying on commissions—and her family responsibilities. While primarily known for her portraits, she also engaged in mythological painting, highlighting her versatility and status as a successful female career artist during her time.