Henryk Siemiradzki was a Polish painter born on January 24, 1843, in Białystok, Poland. He is best known for his large-scale historical and mythological paintings, which often feature dramatic lighting and rich colors. Siemiradzki studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Saint Petersburg and later became a prominent figure in the Academicism movement. Throughout his career, Siemiradzki created notable works such as "Phryne before the Areopagus" and "The Last Days of Pompeii." His art reflects a blend of classical themes and modern techniques, earning him recognition in both Poland and abroad. Siemiradzki passed away on September 23, 1901, in Rome, Italy.