Marietta Robusti, the daughter of Tintoretto was a Renaissance painter. Thus, naturally she received her training in her father's workshop. Born in a family of painters, she became a renowned portrait painter and was often referred to as La Tintoretta. As was unfortunately uncommon for the women artists of that time, she never got large scale commissions typical to male artists. We can see from her comparatively few credited artworks that her works had highly realistic linear perspective. She worked mainly in Venice and created lifelike portraits.
One of the paintings acclaimed to Robusti is. "The portrait of Ottavio Strada". Although, this painting was previously thought to be done by her father. Strada was reportedly a scholar, dealer and art collector who served the Roman emperor. The dealer is depicted in rich and dark clothing indicating his wealth. Whereas the valuable items he is holding, sheds light on his wisdom. He has a wonderstruck yet greedy expression on his face. A female allegorical figure is seen showering gold and silver coins from a cornucopia which he readily accepts. A life size statue of goddess Venus or perhaps a depiction of the painter herself has turned away in distaste. The picture is a harsh remark on the character of the young dealer Ottavio Strada. This painting is an excellent example of the Renaissance style which combines realism and elegance. The use of light and shadow is immaculate.
This portrait is bursting with symbolism. It is an illustration of materialism, greed, and ambition. The inclusion of the Venus statue, more specifically its pose (turning away) may symbolise art rejecting corruption, commerce, and intellectual shallowness. Robusti has created a sophistical and psychological portrait which comments of morals and allegorical storytelling.
