Career
Her marriage into the House of Medici provided her husband"s family with much needed nobility, prestige, and military support as they established their power in Florence. The Bardi family had been exceptionally rich for some time but, following the collapse of the family bank in 1343, its importance was considerably reduced. They enjoyed some fame as suzerains and condottieri.
The Medici called on them in this guise, on certain occasions, for armed support of the Medici"s political hegemony.
Contessina"s parents were Alessandro di Sozzo Bardi, count of Vernio, and Cammilla Pannochieschi, daughter of Raniero di Guido Pannochieschi, count of Elci. Like Giovanni"s marriage to Piccarda, this marriage brought noble connections to the common family of the Medici.
Together the couple had two children: Piero "il Gottoso" and Giovanni. She agreed to take charge of Cosimo"s illegitimate son, Charles de Medici.
She was known for being careful with money and the managing of their household.
He died in 1464 and she remained a point of reference for the grandchildren. Her relationship with Lorenzo and Giuliano was close from childhood, and allowed her political influence as they became leaders. This included negotiating tax benefits for those she supported.
She was also regularly involved in negotiating and approving marriages for the more important families in Florence.
Contessina died between 26 September and 25 October 1473.