Andrea Mantegna - Maria With Child And Angels

Mantegna was born near Padua and worked for local artist Squarcione. Believing his talents were being exploited, the ambitious young artist broke their agreement and in 1453 married into the rival Venetian firm of the Bellinis. Mantegna's early style is represented by the 'Agony in the Garden'.

His first important commission came in 1448, painting frescoes for the Eremitani Chapel in Padua. He worked in Padua, Verona and Venice before moving to Mantua in 1460, where he spent the rest of his life. The great paintings by Mantegna in the Gallery date from his years in Mantua as court artist to the Gonzaga.