The dominant role of female beauty in sixteenth-century Venice is unique both inthe history of the Republic and other parts of the world. One reason for this is theSerenissimaÆs distinctive political-social structure, which granted women special rightsin connection with their dowry and their ability to inherit, another was VeniceÆs pivotal role as an international cultural centre. The rise of influential publishing housesattracted renowned poets and humanists such as Pietro Bembo, Sperone Speroni andLodovi