Rule reminder
Several expressions introduce modal clauses with real, factual comparisons using the indicative: 'nel modo in cui' (in the way that), 'nel modo che' (the way that), 'alla maniera di' (in the style/manner of), 'a modo di' (as a / in the way of). These are followed by the indicative mood, not the subjunctive, because they describe real comparisons or real styles.
Ha dipinto il quadro _____ i maestri rinascimentali.