Annibale Carracci (1560-1609) was an influential Italian Baroque painter and a central figure in the Bolognese School of painting. Born in Bologna, he was part of a family of artists, including his brother Agostino and cousin Ludovico, with whom he founded the Accademia degli Incamminati around 1582. This academy emphasized naturalism, life drawing, and the study of classical models, setting a new direction for Italian art. Carracci's style combined the naturalism of the Lombard and Venetian schools with the dynamism and color of Roman art. He sought to revive the grandeur of High Renaissance art, countering the prevailing Mannerist style. His works are noted for their vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and realistic depictions of human figures. One of Carracci's most significant achievements is the fresco cycle in the Palazzo Farnese in Rome, particularly the "Loves of the Gods" (1597-1608), which showcases his mastery in blending mythology with vivid, lifelike portrayals. His work influenced contemporaries and later artists, contributing significantly to the development of Baroque painting. Annibale Carracci's legacy lies in his ability to merge classical principles with a naturalistic approach, paving the way for future Baroque masters like Caravaggio and Bernini. He passed away in Rome in 1609, leaving a profound impact on the art world.