Gioachino Antonio Rossini

Rossini (1792–1868) is best known for the 39 operas he completed before his 39th birthday, including The Barber of Seville, Othello, and William Tell. An ardent gourmet who inspired dishes served to this day, his love of food is hinted at in this image by Nadar, one of the early and most successful portrait photographers. Nadar was obsessed with photographing (and selling portraits of) the celebrities of his time whether they be actors, politicians, or composers.