Agnolo Bronzino, [Agnolo di Cosimo] a Florentine Mannerist painter, was born in 1503 and died in 1572. He was the pupil and adopted son of Pontormo, who introduced his portrait as a child into his painting Joseph in Egypt [National Gallery, London].

The origin of his nickname, Bronzino, is uncertain, but possibly derived from his having a dark complexion. Bronzino was deeply attached to Pontormo and his style was heavily indebted to his master, although he strove to emulate Raphael as well.

He was a much respected figure who took a prominent part in the activities of the Accademia del Disegno, of which he was a founder member in 1563. His pupils included Alessandro Allori, who------in a curious mirroring of his own early career------was also his adopted son. Allori became better known for his religious works than had his master become. The above image is one of the few religious paintings of the artist that conveys depth; he was lauded more for his secular work.





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