Galileo Chini

Galileo Andrea Maria Chini was born on December 2, 1873, in Florence, Italy. Orphaned of his father at a young age, he was taken under the wing of his uncle Dario, a renowned fresco restorer, who guided him to study decoration at the Santa Croce School of Art in Florence. He began his artistic career working in the workshops of Amedeo Buontempo and Augusto Burchi and attended the Free School of Nude at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence from 1895 to 1897, although he considered himself largely self-taught. In 1899, he married Elvira Pescetti, whom he had met a few years earlier in Volterra.
Chini was a versatile and prominent figure in the Italian art scene, best known for introducing the Liberty style (Art Nouveau) to Italy. He founded the manufactory "L’Arte della Ceramica" and later "Le Fornaci San Lorenzo," earning international recognition including two gold medals at the exhibitions in Turin and London. His work ranged from painting to design, ceramics, and stage design, notably creating the sets for the premiere of Puccini's "Turandot."
His art is characterized by strong ties to Symbolism and Divisionism, evolving into a more intense expressionist phase in his later years. Chini was also an urban planner and illustrator, demonstrating rare versatility. He died in Florence on August 23, 1956, leaving a significant artistic legacy that continues to be appreciated and studied.