Antonio de, generally called "Il Zingaro," or the gipsy, was born about 1382 at Chivita in the Abruzzi. This is Dominici's account of his origin, but others contend that he was born in Venice. At all events, the young gipsy had adopted the trade of a strolling blacksmith, and was admitted in that capacity to the house of Colantonio del Fiore, the Neapolitan painter, on account of his skill, it is said, in making implements of iron. Solario fell in love with the painter's daughter, and Colantonio would only consent to their union on condition that he should renounce the furnace and the hammer for the easel and the brush of the painter, and that he should become distinguished as an artist. The romance of this story closely resembles that of Quintin Matsys. Solario at once agreed, and set out for Bologna, where he became the pupil of Lippo Dalmasio. Leaving Bologna, he studied with undiminished zeal the works of the best artists in the various schools of Italy. He made exquisite heads, executed respectable compositions in historical subjects, drew drapery with care, but was very clumsy in the handling of his hands and feet. Nine years after he left the studio of Colantonio, he again presented himself; but on this occasion he did not appear in the blacksmith's apron, but in the purple gown of the artist. Colantonio had now forgotten the young gipsy. Solaro discovered himself, and became the son-in-law of the artist. He is afterwards said to have painted and taught art in Naples, under King Alphonso, till 1455, when he died. The school of Zingaro afterwards made considerable noise in Italy. (See the works of Dominici, Moschini, and Lanzi.)