b. 1777 Busto Arsizio, Italy, d. 1815 Milan, Italy
draftsman; painter
Italian

Trained in painting at Milan's academy, Giuseppe Bossi used his education as a starting point for a career that branched out into writing and arts administration. In Rome between 1785 and 1801, he met writers, scholars, archaeologists, and Neoclassical artists. He studied ancient and Renaissance art and, to hone his figure drawing skills, drew corpses at a local hospital.

In 1802 Bossi traveled to Lyon, France, where he met Neoclassical painters such as Jacques-Louis David. His style acquired a contemporary, sociopolitical slant and later embraced Romanticism, incorporating a more poetic and sensual approach. Back in Milan, Bossi served as secretary at the academy until 1807. He developed a major library and founded its art gallery, acquiring important paintings by such artists as Raphael. He also prevented many works from being smuggled abroad or dispersed.

Bossi always associated with intellectuals and artists--Antonio Canova was a great friend and admirer--and displayed a range of interests. After making a replica of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, he released an ambitious and learned publication about the painting in 1810. A passionate archaeologist and book lover, Bossi also collected drawings, prints, paintings, coins, sculptures, and antiques.