Giovanni Battista Sommariva was an influential Italian politician and art collector born in 1779. He served as the mayor of Milan and was known for his role in promoting the arts during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Sommariva was a key figure in the cultural life of Italy, supporting various artists and intellectuals of his time. In addition to his political career, Sommariva amassed a significant collection of artworks, including pieces by renowned artists such as Francesco Hayez and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. His contributions to both politics and the arts left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Milan and beyond.