early life and training michel sittow, also known as master michiel, was born in reval (now tallinn), estonia, around 1469. his early life is shrouded in mystery, but it's believed he received his initial training from his father, a painter. sittow's apprenticeship in bruges, possibly under the renowned netherlandish painter hans memling, significantly influenced his style. rise to prominence as a court portrait painter in 1492, sittow entered the service of isabella of castile and león, marking the beginning of his illustrious career as a court portrait painter. he remained in her service un…