Giuseppe De Nittis (1846–1884) was an Italian painter known for his vibrant depictions of modern life and his unique blend of Impressionist and academic styles. Born in Barletta, Italy, De Nittis showed early artistic talent and studied at the Reale Istituto di Belle Arti in Naples. After being expelled for rebellious behavior, he continued to develop his technique independently, drawing inspiration from both the Italian Macchiaioli and the French Impressionists. In the early 1870s, De Nittis moved to Paris, where he quickly became part of the city’s flourishing art scene. He exhibited at the Salon and was invited to show alongside the Impressionists in their first group exhibition in 1874. However, he remained somewhat apart, maintaining a more polished and refined approach in his work. His paintings captured the elegance of Parisian society, urban landscapes, and fashionable figures, often painted en plein air with great sensitivity to light and atmosphere. De Nittis also traveled frequently to London and returned often to Italy, producing a diverse body of work. His success brought him both fame and wealth, but his life was cut short when he died at just 38. Today, De Nittis is celebrated as a masterful observer of 19th-century modern life.