Portrait of Ottavio Strada

'Tintoretto' was nicknamed 'little dyer' for his father's humble occupation of 'tintore' ( a dyer), and 'il Furioso' for his violent application of paint. His work was sometimes criticized as being hastily executed and unfinished during his lifetime, but he was among the most influential and prominent Venetian painters of his time. Except for visiting Mantua around 1580, Tintoretto stayed in Venice, where his dramatic, colorful Mannerist style eventually dominated. He painted mostly religious subjects, showing unexpected viewpoints and striking perspective; many subordinate scenes depict everyday life. He also made many portraits and taught two sons and a daughter in his workshop.