Agostino Carracci (1557-1602) was an influential Italian painter and printmaker, known for his role in the development of the Bolognese School of painting. He was part of a family of artists, including his cousin Annibale Carracci, and together they sought to revive the principles of classical art while incorporating naturalism and emotional expression. Carracci's work often featured religious themes and mythological subjects, characterized by a vibrant use of color and dynamic compositions. He played a significant role in the transition from the Mannerist style to the more realistic approach of the Baroque period, influencing many artists who followed him.