Explained in plain English

Who was Antonello da Messina?

Antonello da Messina was a highly influential 15th-century Italian painter from Sicily, known for bringing early Netherlandish oil painting techniques to Italy. His innovative style, blending Northern European realism with Italian Renaissance ideals, made him a pivotal figure in art history. The stolen paintings, including parts of a 1473 altarpiece, represent significant works by this master.