Arte, born into a minor 16th-century Florentine aristocratic family, abandoned noble life after her father's death. Her mother destroyed Arte's artwork and pressured her into marriage to restore the family's fortunes. Choosing instead to pursue painting, Arte faced workshop rejection due to her gender. In desperation, she cut her hair and threatened further self-mutilation before being stopped by artisan Leo. He tested her resolve with arduous tasks; upon her completion, he accepted her as his apprentice. Initially naive from her upbringing, Arte possesses unwavering determination and notable physical strength, capable of lifting heavy objects that challenge male peers. She respects hard work across all social classes and negotiates firmly for mutual benefit, though she sometimes overworks to detrimental effect. Her blunt honesty causes social friction, yet she maintains optimism despite gender-based obstacles. Key relationships define her path: Leo becomes her mentor and eventual romantic interest, though their bond remains professional during her apprenticeship. Sculptor's apprentice Angelo initially embodies chauvinism but evolves to respect her capabilities. Courtesan Veronica serves as a confidante who helps Arte recognize her feelings for Leo. Seamstress Darcia becomes both friend and student, with Arte teaching her literacy. A significant turning point came when Venetian merchant Yuri Falier, impressed by Arte's skill, hired her as a tutor for his niece Katarina and family painter. Arte negotiated terms: a six-month tenure in Venice in exchange for Yuri's assistance recovering a dowry for Leo's friend Lusanna. There, Arte helped Katarina overcome trauma from parental neglect while balancing teaching and painting duties. Her overwork led to collapse, requiring subsequent workload adjustment. Returning to Florence, Arte accepted a commission from Cardinal Silvio Passerini to paint "Irene" (later revealed as Spanish Princess Caterina) while gathering intelligence. Discovering Caterina's true identity led to Arte's imprisonment by the Cardinal. Rescued by Caterina and her maid Azucena, Arte confessed her feelings to Leo, who encouraged her artistic perseverance, before fleeing to Spain under Caterina's protection. In Spain, Arte served as Caterina's court painter for eight years. Learning of Cardinal Silvio's departure from Florence, she returned with mercenary escorts provided by Caterina, intending to reunite with Leo. Earlier, during her escape from Florence, Arte briefly reconciled with her mother and uncle, who accepted her chosen path despite past conflicts. Her physical evolution reflects her journey: initially cutting her hair short to reject traditional femininity, she later grew it to knee-length, braiding it as she embraced both womanhood and artistry. She typically wears practical clothing like a green overdress with silver embroidery, white petticoat, and brown belt.