Beatrice Cenci's story.

At first glance, this painting may seem like a mere portrait of an individual, but behind this canvas and this sorrowful smile lies a tragic tale that has earned it a place among history's most poignant artworks.

This is the portrait of Beatrice Cenci, a timeless masterpiece painted by the Italian artist Guido Reni. It was created within the confines of the prison where the young woman was incarcerated, just one day before her scheduled execution. This painting serves as an eternal testament to her sorrowful smile and angelic, departing gaze.

Beatrice was born into a wealthy Italian noble family. However, her father was a man of such depravity that he even violated the purity of his own daughter. When his wife and family could no longer endure his heinous acts and relentless tyranny, they decided to end his life. His wife and son carried out the murder, and subsequently, the entire family was falsely accused. Beatrice was condemned to death.

Before her execution, she witnessed the execution of her stepmother, followed by the beheading of her brother. His body was then quartered, a gruesome practice known as 'quartering' during that era. When her own turn came, as she faced imminent death, she raised her head towards the heavens and declare" 'O Lord, You know that I die innocent."