Elisabetta Sirani (1638–1665) was a highly accomplished Italian painter of the Baroque period, born and active in Bologna. She was the daughter of the artist Giovanni Andrea Sirani, who was principal assistant to the painter Guido Reni. When her father became ill, Sirani ran the print publishing business supporting the whole family.
Sirani specialized in religious, mythological, and allegorical subjects. She became one of the most successful painters in Bologna during her lifetime and attracted patrons from across Europe. Notably, she also trained a number of men and women artists, establishing the first school of painting for women in Europe outside of a convent.
Sirani died suddenly in 1665, aged just twenty-seven. Despite her early death, she was remarkably prolific, producing over 200 paintings as well as numerous drawings and engravings. Her legacy lies both in her artistic achievements and her role in advancing opportunities for women in the arts.
