Federico Zuccaro died 6 August 1609 in Ancona. A native of Urbino, Federico Zuccaro ascended to artistic acclaim over the course of the second half of the 16th century, so much so that he was widely considered one of the best and most influential painters of the late 16th century.
Zuccaro, who was based in Rome, adopted the Mannerist techniques of his brother, Taddeo, and developed a far-reaching international clientele, including Queen Elizabeth I of England, King Phillip II of Spain, and the Duke of Florence. Zuccaro also distinguished himself as being equal parts painter and theorist: he was a founding member of the Accademia di San Luca in Rome and in 1607 wrote the treatise, L’Idea de’ pittori, scultori ed architetti, that was partially inspired by the writings of Giorgio Vasari.
Self-Portrait, circa 1588; Uffizi Gallery, Florence.
Cupid and Pan, circa 1600; J. Paul Getty Museum. Accession no. 72.PA.6
Last Judgement (detail), Dome, Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence.
Preliminary Sketch for a Portrait of Elizabeth I, circa 1570.
Taddeo Copying Raphael’s Frescoes in the Loggia of the Villa Farnesina, Where He is Also Represented Asleep, circa 1595. J. Paul Getty Museum. Accession no. 99.GA.6.