Visconti and Sforza Patronage Made Milan a Renaissance Art Hub

Art critic Roberto Longhi highlighted the significant influence of the Visconti and Sforza families in establishing the Duchy of Milan as a prominent hub for art during the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1958, he organized the exhibition 'Arte lombarda dai Visconti agli Sforza'. The Visconti, who ruled since the 14th century, promoted the International Gothic style, commissioning the Duomo di Milano in 1387 and constructing castles such as Castello di Porta Giovia. Following the death of Filippo Maria Visconti, Francesco Sforza married Bianca Maria Visconti, maintaining artistic patronage and employing artists like Bonifacio Bembo. Under Francesco's leadership, Renaissance concepts thrived, with contributions from figures like Filarete, Vincenzo Foppa, and later Ludovico il Moro, who welcomed Leonardo da Vinci and architect Donato Bramante.