Juan Manuel Blanes was a prominent Uruguayan painter born on June 8, 1830, in Montevideo. He is best known for his historical and romantic paintings that often depict scenes from Uruguayan history and culture. Blanes' work is characterized by its attention to detail and emotional depth, making him a significant figure in the 19th-century art scene of South America. Throughout his career, Blanes contributed to the development of Uruguayan art and was a key figure in the establishment of the National Museum of Visual Arts in Montevideo. He passed away on July 15, 1894, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence artists in Uruguay and beyond.