Giovanni Paolo Panini was an Italian painter and architect born in 1691 in Piacenza. He is best known for his vibrant and detailed paintings of Roman architecture and landscapes, often incorporating imaginary elements alongside real structures. His works celebrate the grandeur of Rome and reflect the artistic style of the Rococo period. Panini's most famous pieces include his series of capricci, which are fantastical views of Rome that blend actual monuments with imaginative settings. He also created numerous paintings for the nobility and contributed to the decoration of various palaces. Panini passed away in 1765, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.