**Guercino** (Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, 1591–1666) was a prominent Italian Baroque painter, known for his mastery of chiaroscuro and expressive emotionalism. Born in Cento, near Bologna, he earned the nickname "Guercino" (meaning "squinter") due to an eye condition. Largely self-taught, Guercino was influenced by the Carracci family and Caravaggio, blending naturalism with dramatic lighting to create powerful religious and secular scenes. His major breakthrough came in 1621 when Pope Gregory XV invited him to Rome. During this time, he painted significant works like *The Burial and Ascension of St. Petronilla* and the ceiling fresco *Aurora* in the Casino Ludovisi, which showcased his skill in Baroque illusionism and dynamic compositions. After the pope's death, Guercino returned to Cento, where his style evolved towards a more classical and restrained approach. In 1642, following the death of Guido Reni, he moved to Bologna, becoming the city's leading artist. His later works, like *The Return of the Prodigal Son*, exhibit a softer, more introspective tone. Guercino’s legacy as a master of Baroque painting is cemented by his profound impact on European art, leaving behind a vast body of work characterized by technical brilliance and emotional depth.