Boldini was born in Ferrara, Italy. He was the son of a painter who specialized in religious subjects. In 1862, Boldini went to Florence for six years to study and pursue painting. He only infrequently attended classes at the Academy of Fine Arts. However, in Florence, Boldini met other realist painters known as the Macchiaioli, who were Italian precursors to Impressionism. Their influence is seen in Boldini’s landscapes which show his spontaneous response to nature. Still, it is for his portraits that he became best known.

After moving to London, Boldini attained success as a portraitist. He completed portraits of premier members of society. This included Lady Holland and the Duchess of Westminster. From 1872 he lived in Paris, where he became a friend of Edgar Degas. He became the most fashionable portrait painter in Paris in the late 19th century.

Boldini’s Style

Boldini had a dashing style of painting. This shows some Macchiaioli influence and a brio reminiscent of the work of younger artists. Examples of this are John Singer Sargent and Paul Helleu. He was nominated commissioner of the Italian section of the Paris Exposition in 1889. He received the Légion d’honneur for this appointment.

In 1897 he had a solo exhibition in New York. He participated in the Venice Biennale in 1895, 1903, 1905, and 1912.

He died in Paris on 11 July 1931. Source: Wikipedia.