Leonello d'Este | |
|---|---|
| Marquis of Ferrara and Duke of Modena and Reggio Emilia | |
 | |
| Coat of arms | .svg) |
| Born | 21 September 1407 Ferrara |
| Died | 1 October 1450 (aged 43) |
| Family | Este |
| Spouse | Margherita Gonzaga: m. 1435–1439 Mary of Aragon: m. 1444–1450 |
| Father | Niccolò III d'Este |
| Mother | Stella de’ Tolomei |
Leonello d'Este (also spelled Lionello; 21 September 1407 – 1 October 1450)[1] was Marquess of Ferrara, Modena, and Reggio Emilia from 1441 to 1450. Despite the presence of legitimate children, Leonello was favoured by his father as his successor. In addition, his virtuous qualities, high level of education, and popularity among the common people as well as his formal papal recognition ultimately made him the most suitable heir.[2]
Leonello had little influence over the Italian political landscape and aristocracy in Ferrara. Contrary to other prior d’Este family leaders, such as Azzo VII, Niccolò III, and Isabella d’Este, who had a drive for power and control, Leonello is recognized principally for his sponsorship of the arts, literature, and culture. In 1441–1450, his learned courts and developing knowledge assisted him in transforming the city of Ferrara.[3] Under the guidance of Guarino Veronese, his humanist teacher, and with the approval of the commune, Leonello began the reformation, particularly, the University of Ferrara.[4]
Leonello not only elevated the humanistic cultural movements during his rule, but it also influenced the political and artistic advancements of his successors. Leonello d’Este served as the precursor of the achievements in the history of the House of Este.
- ^ Brunelli, Giampiero (1993). "ESTE, Leonello d'". Dizionario Biografico degli Italiani (in Italian). Vol. 43.
- ^ Bestor, Jane Fair. Bastardy and Legitimacy in the Formation of a Regional State in Italy: The Estense Succession. Comparative Studies in Society and History, 1996, pp. 571–572
- ^ Martin Gosman, Alasdair James Macdonald and Arie Johan Vanderjagt.Princes and Princely Culture: 1450–1660, 2005, p. 32
- ^ Paful F. Grendler. The Universities of the Italian Renaissance, 2002.