Beauty, make up, power: plunge into the intimate history of cosmetics How to be a Renaissance Woman allows us to glimpse the world of the female artists, artisans and businesswomen carving out space for themselves, as well as those who gained power and influence in the cut-throat world of the court. In a vivid exploration of women's lives, Professor Jill Burke invites us to rediscover historical cosmetic recipes and unpack the origins of the beauty ideals that are still with us today. 'Lively and intriguing ... You'll never look at Renaissance portraits in the same way' MAGGIE O'FARRELL