GIOVANNI BATISTA, an Italian painter, was born at Venice in 1682. His first lessons in art were received from his father, a statuary in wood. But it was not until he had studied the works of Guercino at Bologna that his characteristic style was formed. In spite of a mannered and monotonous colouring and a hasty execution, his pictures there became notable for a strong contrast of light and shadow, and a boldness of relief. He produced pleasing altar-pieces; he succeeded admirably in several caricatures; and he was especially excellent in painting busts and heads. The consequence was, that he rose into high repute. Many followers gathered around him. Pitteri, Pelli, and Monaco engraved several of his pictures. He was also appointed director of the Academy of Painting in his native city, a post which he held till his death in 1754.