Giovanni Bellini was born in Venice in 1435. His father, Jacopo, was a painter who specialized in miniatures and portraits. His older brother, Gentile, was a painter as well. Giovanni spent long hours at the studio learning from both. His sister, Nicolosia, married Andrea Mantegna, who became the city’s leading printmaker. Classicism and sculptural forms converged in Bellini’s early work, but his style began to shift when Antonello da Messina came to Venice, bringing his knowledge of Flemish masters. It was then that Bellini began to experiment with oil paintings, synthesizing various influences and moving toward sensuality and a use of rich color. Among his illustrious students were Giorgione and Titian. The 50 works in this exhibition speak to Bellini’s life and artistic milestones. —Elena Clavarino