In life (1518–1594), Jacopo Robusti was known as Tintoretto, the name that is familiar to us today.

He was a Renaissance painter known for the speed with which he filled his canvases with bold brushwork, muscular figures and, for his time, a startling use of perspective.

He rarely left his home city of Venice, and was relentlessly ambitious to be known as a daring painter.

Though known as a agreeable companion and for his wit, Tintoretto led a very retired life, spending most of his time in his studio even when not working. To him, painting—and drawing—were the breath of life.