Mario Cortiello

Mario Cortiello
Mario Cortiello
	Mario Cortiello - Autoritratto, 1933 (oil on panel)
Born	1 July 1907; Naples, Italy
Died	23 December 1981 (aged 74); Naples, Italy
Nationality	Italian
Occupation	Painter

Mario Cortiello (1 July 1907 – 23 December 1981) often referred to as the "Chagall of Napoli",^[1] was an influential Italian painter known for his vibrant and emotive works. Born in Naples, he was a student of the renowned artist Gennaro Villani, from whom he inherited a passion for capturing the spirit of Neapolitan life. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Cortiello did not seek to modernize traditional art but instead focused on a style that was deeply expressive and instinctive, resonating with the local culture and atmosphere.

Throughout his career, Cortiello achieved recognition by participating in several prestigious exhibitions. From 1930 to 1948, he showcased his work at significant events like the Venice Biennale and the Rome Quadriennale.^[2] His art was also displayed in numerous galleries across Europe and America, where it gained both critical and popular acclaim. His work was part of the painting event in the art competition at the 1948 Summer Olympics.^[3]

Cortiello's unique ability to blend the traditional with the emotional earned him a distinctive place in Italian art, leading to comparisons with Marc Chagall, especially for his dreamlike depictions of everyday scenes imbued with a sense of magic and wonder. His legacy continues to be celebrated for its contribution to Neapolitan and Italian art.