Much of Orazio Gentileschi’s work in the 16th century is consisting of painting the figures within the decorative schemes of other artists. After 1600, he came under the influence of the more naturalistic style of Cararavaggio. He received important commissions in Fabiano and Genoa before moving to Paris to the court of Marie de Medici Marie. He spent the last part of his life at the court of Charles I of England . He was the father of the painter Artemisia Gentileschi.
Artmisia Gentileshi is considered one of the most accomplished painters following the death of Caravaggio. In an era when female painters were not easily accepted by the artistic community or patrons, she was the first woman to become a member of the Accademia di Arte in Florence and had an international clientele.
She was known for being able to convincingly depict the female figure, anywhere between nude and fully clothed. Artemisia was also famous for her skill and talent in handling color, both overall in the composition but also in building depth.