Francesco Barbieri, also known as Il Guercino, was an Italian painter born in 1591 in Cento, Italy. He is renowned for his dramatic use of light and shadow, a technique known as chiaroscuro. Barbieri's works often depict religious themes and mythological subjects, showcasing his skill in capturing human emotion and movement. Throughout his career, Barbieri created numerous masterpieces, including the famous painting The Burial of Saint Petronius. He was influenced by other artists, such as Caravaggio, and became a prominent figure in the Baroque art movement. Barbieri passed away in 1666, leaving a lasting legacy in the art world.