Bona Sforza (1494–1557)

Bona Sforza (1494–1557) came from an Italian aristocratic family, and in 1518 she was married to the king of Poland Sigismund I (1467–1548), who was simultaneously Grand Prince of Lithuania. Along with numerous servants, courtiers and craftsmen, she brought new customs and manners with her from Italy to Poland. After her husband had died, she returned to Italy in 1556.

Bona Sforza (1494–1557), miniature painting, oil on metal, ca. 1555, unknown artist; image source: Czartoryski Museum Kraków.