Veronica Franco (1546–1591) was an Italian poet and courtesan in 16th-century Venice. She is known for her notable clientele, feminist advocacy, literary contributions, and philanthropy. Her humanist education and cultural contributions influenced the roles of Courtesans in the late Venetian Renaissance.
Portrait by Tintoretto, ca. 1575
Courtesan, in modern usage, is a euphemism for a kept mistress or prostitute, particularly one with wealthy, powerful, or influential clients. The term historically also referred to a courtier, a person who attended the court of a monarch or other powerful person.
Veronica Franco, famous Venetian poet and courtesan. Portrait by Paolo Veronese.
Courtesans with their servants by Lancelot Volders
Olympe Pélissier (Vernet, 1830) was described by Balzac as "the most beautiful courtesan in Paris". In 1846, she married Rossini.
Lais of Corinth by Hans Holbein the Younger, Kunstmuseum Basel