Born Francesco de' Rossi in Florence in 1510, he adopted the name Salviati in honor of his patron, Cardinal Giovanni Salviati. He received his early training in the workshops of Giuliano Bugiardini and Baccio Bandinelli, eventually forming a close friendship with Giorgio Vasari, who would later document his career.

Salviati is celebrated for his sophisticated frescoes and altarpieces that define the Mannerist style, characterized by dramatic movement and intricate anatomical detail. His work often reflects the influence of Michelangelo and Raphael, synthesized into a highly personal and decorative aesthetic.

His legacy remains central to the study of 16th-century Italian art, with his works held in major international collections. He is recognized for his significant contributions to the decoration of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence and various ecclesiastical commissions in Rome.