In the eye of the beholder. Female perspectives on the importance of beauty

The famous male author Baldassare Castiglione wrote that "much is lacking to a woman who lacks beauty". But what did women themselves think about this topic?

Marlisa den Hartog • December 11, 2020

Makeup and female beauty standards in Renaissance Italy

In Renaissance Italy, the female beauty ideal included features such as blonde hair and a pale skin. Women tried their best to live up to these expectations, but elaborate makeup and beauty routines were not without risk.

Marlisa den Hartog • July 10, 2020

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. On looks and personality in medieval thought

In Renaissance Italy, “beautiful people” were believed to be good, whereas “ugly people” were generally bad. But what was the “logic” behind this reasoning?

Marlisa den Hartog • September 06, 2019

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In the eye of the beholder. Female perspectives on the importance of beauty

Makeup and female beauty standards in Renaissance Italy

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. On looks and personality in medieval thought