early life and training
charles edward perugini, originally carlo perugini, was an italian-born english painter of the romantic and victorian era. born on september 1, 1839, in naples, italy, perugini's family relocated to england when he was six years old. he received his artistic training in italy under
giuseppe bonolis and
giuseppe mancinelli, and later in paris under the guidance of
ary scheffer.
artistic career and notable works
perugini's artistic career flourished under the influence of lord leighton, who brought him back to england in 1863. initially, perugini worked as leighton's studio assistant, focusing on classical scenes. however, he soon shifted his attention to more profitable genres, including portrait painting and depictions of pretty women and children. one of perugini's most renowned works is
a girl reading (1878), now part of the
manchester art gallery's collection. this piece showcases perugini's skill in capturing the essence of his subjects. another notable work,
perugini's portrait of sophy gray, was initially mistaken for a work by pre-raphaelite painter sir john everett millais.
personal life and legacy
in 1874, perugini married kate, the youngest daughter of novelist charles dickens. kate pursued her own artistic career, often collaborating with her husband. perugini's active social life within artistic circles of his era is a testament to his dedication to the art world. perugini passed away on december 22, 1918, in london, leaving behind a legacy of captivating victorian-era paintings.
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