Born in Bologna in 1529, Bartolomeo Passerotti was a central figure in the Bolognese school of the late Renaissance. He spent time in Rome during the mid-16th century, where he was influenced by the works of Michelangelo and the Mannerist style, before returning to his native city to establish a successful workshop.

Passerotti is recognized for his technical skill in portraiture and his distinct interest in genre painting, particularly his depictions of market scenes and butchers, which introduced a new level of naturalism to the region. His work served as a significant precursor to the later developments of the Carracci family in Bologna.