GENTILESCI, HORATIO, an Italian painter,
was born at Pisa in 1563. After having made him-
self famous at Florence, Rome, Genoa, and other parts
of Italy, he removed to Savoy; from whence he went Gentilefchi
to France, and at last, upon the invitation of Charles I. Gentilefchi.
came over to England. He was well received by Gentleman.
that king, who appointed him lodgings in his court,
together with a considerable salary; and employed
him in his palace at Greenwich, and other public
places. The most remarkable of his performances in
England, were the ceilings of Greenwich and York
house. He did also a Madonna, a Magdalen, and Lot
with his two daughters, for King Charles; all which
he performed admirably well. After the death of the
king, when his collection was exposed to sale, nine
pictures of Gentilefchi were sold for 600l. and are
now said to be the ornaments of the hall in Marl-
borough house. His most esteemed piece abroad was
the portico of Cardinal Bentivoglio's palace at Rome.
He made several attempts in face painting, but with
little success; his talent lying altogether in histories,
with figures as big as the life. He was much in favour
with the duke of Buckingham, and many others of
the nobility. After 12 years continuance in England,
he died here at 84 years of age, and was buried in the
queen's chapel at Somerset-house. His print is a-
mong the heads of Vandyke, he having been drawn
by that great master. He left behind him a daughter,
Artemisia Gentilefchi, who was but little inferior to
her father in history painting, and excelled him in
portraits.