The strategies of female patronage (matronage) and statecraft. Vittoria della Rovere, Grand Duchess of Tuscany (1622-1694)

This presentation will address female patronage (matronage) and statecraft through a case study of Vittoria della Rovere de' Medici, Grand Duchess of Tuscany, by examining the strategies she employed as an early modern political leader and patron of the arts and the cultural and diplomatic arenas in which she exercised her patronage and power. 
The Grand Duchess was well aware of her strong leadership role, adopting matronage - in all its diverse manifestations, artistic and diplomatic - as a means to achieve her personal, social, cultural and political goals. A cultured and cultivated woman, she well understood the efficacy of the latest artistic trends and material culture in fashioning her princely status and image of power. Particular focus will be placed on Vittoria's support of women, as this was a major aspect of her governance, her philanthropy and her patronage.