Francesco Squarcione (b Padua, c. 1395; d Padua, after May 1468). Italian painter, teacher, draughtsman and printmaker. He is a controversial figure. His mediocre qualities as a painter are less contentious than his role as the head of a school for painters, possibly the earliest private establishment devoted to teaching painting and distinct the workshop system of instruction through apprenticeships. There are only two works signed by him: the Virgin and Child (imaged here, Berlin) and De Lazara Altarpiece (Padua).