Beatrice d'Este, Duchess of Milan, 1475-1497

The book opens a window onto the bustling world of fifteenth‑century Italy, where newly uncovered state papers and private letters have reshaped our understanding of the era’s most influential families. Through meticulous research it brings to life the courts of Milan, Mantua and Urbino, revealing how politics, art and everyday pleasures intertwined. At its heart is Beatrice d’Este, the younger sister of the famed Isabella, whose own story illuminates the vibrant culture of the Renaissance.

Readers are invited to follow Beatrice from her teenage marriage into the Sforza court, where her love of music, poetry and sport made her a beloved figure among courtiers. The narrative captures her spirited participation in hunts, dances and diplomatic intrigues, while also hinting at the fragile balance of power that would soon confront her. Her sudden, early death adds a poignant layer, leaving a lasting impression of a woman who embodied the joy and idealism of her time.