Why the Courtesan?

I fell in love with the mid- to late-16th century gown typical of both courtesans and noble Venetian women the first time I saw it in a dress diary.  From the characteristic deep split bodice front, V-pointed back, and wide set shoulder straps, I was in love.  Titian, Bronzino, and others made it clear  in their works that thin ( Read more... )