Lorenzo Lotto was an Italian Renaissance painter whose introspective portraits and expressive religious works set him apart from his Venetian contemporaries. Born in Venice, he traveled extensively—working in... View More

Lorenzo Lotto was an Italian Renaissance painter whose introspective portraits and expressive religious works set him apart from his Venetian contemporaries. Born in Venice, he traveled extensively—working in Treviso, Bergamo, and Loreto—often adapting his style to local tastes.

Lotto’s paintings are distinguished by psychological depth, vibrant color, and meticulous symbolism. His portraits capture the inner life of sitters—merchants, clergy, and nobility—through thoughtful gestures and personal attributes.

Despite critical acclaim in his lifetime, Lotto’s fortunes waned late in life; he joined a religious confraternity in Loreto and painted devotional subjects for the sanctuary there. Rediscovered in the 20th century, Lotto is now celebrated for the emotional intensity and individuality of his art.