Giovanni Gioviano Pontano (1426–1503)

Pontano was a leading humanist and statesman at the court of Naples and the "tutor" of Duke Alfonso of Calabria. He was a passionate student of ancient authors, trying to reconcile their goals with Christianity, and from 1471 led the Neapolitan Academy that later bore his name. Fittingly, the humanist is shown in antique garb. Adriano Fiorentino, the artist of the portrait, arrived in Naples in about 1488, working there until 1495. He also made a bronze bust of the humanist and a portrait medal.

Credit: Purchase, Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, by exchange, 1991