Giovanni Paolo Panini was a painter from Rome who, though he studied for a career in the Church, later became a popular and well-regarded master of perspective and architectural paintings.
Training initially in Piacenza under the stage designer Francesco Galli-Bibiena, from whom Panini learnt the art of painting illusionistic architecture, the young artist moved to Rome in 1711. There he studied under Andrea Locatelli and won his first commissions for the decoration of various Roman palaces. In 1719 Panini became a member of the Accademia di San Luca, where he would, in 1754 become principal. As his reputation grew, so did the demand for his works.
Following in the tradition established by Gaspar van Wittel and Salvator Rosa, among others, Panini devoted himself to the painting of vedute from 1716 onwards. Alongside his painting activities, he also worked as an architect and also produced many decorations that included festival machines, fireworks, and more. He was favoured by the Spanish monarchy, for which reason there are numerous works by Panini in the collection of the Prado. Panini’s work also developed specific popularity among British collectors and travellers on the Grand Tour. Known for view paintings that were accurate and objective, rather than idealised or nostalgic, he prospered financially as a result.
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