Eleonora di Toledo

In 2017, I traveled to Florence Italy with a dervise group of artist. There we study the art, history, and culture of Florence. I fell in love with Italy for it's the richness of history and captivating views. 

Recently, I have been revisiting my love for Italy and studying the Medici Family. I stumbled across Eleanor of Toledo (Italian: Eleonora di Toledo). Elenora is was a Spanish noblewoman who was the wife of Cosimo I de' Medici and the Duchess of Florence. Often referred to as the Grand Duchess of Tuscany and with the first modern first lady. 

I am moved by the detail of her dress, hair garnet, necklace, and of course jewelry. She lived a good life and served as regent of Florence during the absence of her spouse. What I admire most about her is that she was the patron to many of the most notable artists of the age.