Mario Mafai: A Pioneer of the Scuola Romana Mario Mafai (1902-1965) was a prominent Italian painter best known as a co-founder of the Scuola Romana, or Roman School. His work is characterized by a melancholic sensibility and a deeply personal exploration of Roman life, often infused with themes of Jewish heritage and social commentary. Early Life and Education Born in Rome on February 12, 1902, Mafai eschewed traditional academic paths early on. Rather than completing formal schooling, he chose to attend the Scuola Libera del Nudo (Free School of the Nude) at the Accademia di Belle Arti di…