The Magnificence of Borso and Ercole d'Este: Princes of Ferrara (1450-1505)

Abstract

<p>This study focuses on the reigns of Borso and Ercole d'Este who ruled Ferrara consecutively from 1450-1504. During this period Ferrara became one of the leading courts of Italy and a prominent European cultural centre. This was largely the result of the rulers' display of "Magnificence" , a classical concept which gained a new significance in the later fifteenth century. The Este used Magnificence to consolidate their dynasty and to fulfill personal political aspirations. Furthermore, they used it to emphasize class differences; such behaviour indicates the crystallization of an upper-class identity among the ruling elite of Italy. Ercole, in particular, emerges as an example of the self-assured, aristocratic ruler who appeared in the later <em>Quattrocento</em> Italian courts.</p>