After studying in Rome and showing his work at the 1905 exhibition of the Roman Secession, Renato Tomassi travelled through Germany and Northern Europe. In the first half of the 20th century, Renato Tomassi was a sought-after portraitist, famous for his precise and exquisite portraits. His commissioners came mainly from the Italian aristocracy and the German upper classes. Tomassi himself was of noble origin and therefore quickly found access to the circles of his clients.