Este, Isabella d' (1474–1539)

Italian noblewoman, a leading member of the powerful d'Este dynasty. In 1490 she married Gianfrancesco II Gonzaga, Marquess of Mantua. A skilled diplomat, she protected the interests of Mantua and Ferrara during his frequent absences on military campaigns, and after his death in 1519 was a trusted counsellor to her eldest son, Federico II (1500–40). She is best remembered as one of the leading Renaissance patrons, notably of artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael, and the writer Castiglione.

She was the daughter of Ercole I d'Este (1431–1505), Duke of Ferrara. He ensured that she received a thorough humanistic education – Battista Guarino was among her tutors – and she is chiefly remembered for the extraordinary cultural flowering she brought about in Mantua. Both she and her husband were keenly interested in choral and organ music, and Isabella's music room survives in the Reggia de' Gonzaga, Mantua, decorated with wooden inlays of musical motifs by Tullio Lombardo. Among those to whom she gave patronage were the artists Mantegna, Titian, Giulio Romano, Francia, and Perugino. The writers included Ariosto, Trissino, Mantovano (Battista Spagnoli), and Bandello.