Francesco de Mura: A Life in Art Early Life and Training Francesco de Mura (born Naples, Italy, April 21, 1696 – died Naples, August 19, 1782), also known as *Franceschiello*, was a prominent Italian painter of the late Baroque period. His artistic journey began with an apprenticeship under the esteemed Francesco Solimena, a leading figure in Neapolitan painting. Later, he further honed his skills with Domenico Viola, where he encountered and worked alongside his contemporary, Mattia Preti. This early training laid a solid foundation for his future artistic endeavors. Early Career and Fresc…