Gioachino Rossini (29 February 1792 – 13 November 1868) was an Italian composer who gained fame for his 39
operas, although he also wrote many songs, some
chamber music and piano pieces, as well as
sacred music. He set new standards for both comic and serious opera before retiring from large-scale composition while still in his thirties, at the height of his popularity. By the early 1850s, Rossini's mental and physical health had deteriorated; he moved to Paris for the more advanced medical care available, remaining there for the rest of his life. His health improved, and he started composing again. He and
his wife established a musical
salon in Paris on Saturday evenings, which became internationally renowned.
This photograph of Rossini, by French journalist, caricaturist and photographer Étienne Carjat, was taken in 1865.Photograph credit: Étienne Carjat; restored by Adam Cuerden