In 1971, art historian Linda Nochlin asked a question that would reshape the discipline: “Why have there been no great women artists?” Although many women were denied the training and opportunities available to their male contemporaries, a remarkable group of artists built successful careers, challenged convention and left an enduring mark on European art. Sofonisba Anguissola (c.1532–1625)One of the most celebrated women artists of the Renaissance, Sofonisba Anguissola earned international acclaim for her portraits. Anguissola later became court painter to Philip II of Spain, and even received informal guidance from Michelangelo. Her engravings reproduced works by leading Renaissance artists and helped to circulate compositions across Europe long before photography or mass reproduction.