Samuel von Brukenthal was an important figure in the 18th century, known for his role as a governor of Transylvania in the Austrian Empire. Born in 1721, he was a prominent politician and a patron of the arts, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of the region. Brukenthal is best remembered for establishing the Brukenthal Palace in Sibiu, which houses one of the oldest museums in Romania. His collection included paintings, manuscripts, and artifacts, reflecting his dedication to preserving and promoting culture and education in Transylvania.