Rudolf II was an emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, belonging to the Habsburg dynasty. He reigned from 1576 to 1612 and is known for being a great patron of art and sciences. During his reign, he transformed Prague into one of the main cultural capitals of Europe, attracting artists, scientists, and scholars from across the continent. He fostered the development of Mannerism and the birth of Baroque art in the region. Additionally, Rudolf II was a passionate art collector, especially of Renaissance works and curious artifacts, forming one of the most important collections of his time. His court was attended by renowned artists and scientists, such as the painter Giuseppe Arcimboldo and the astronomer Tycho Brahe.
