Michele Cortegiani (1857 – 1928): Capturing Sicilian Light Michele Cortegiani, born in Palermo, Italy, on February 8th, 1857, was a prolific painter whose canvases breathed with the vibrant hues of Sicily and Tunisia. He emerged from a lineage steeped in artistic tradition, inheriting influences from his mentor, Francesco Lojacono, who instilled in him a profound appreciation for color and observation—a foundation that would propel Cortegiani to become one of the foremost figures within the “Masters of Color” movement. His journey began with formal training under Lojacono before relocating t…