Fortunino Matania (1881-1963) was an Italian artist known for his realistic and detailed illustrations. Born in Naples, Italy, Matania studied at the Naples Academy of Fine Arts before moving to London in 1902. He quickly established himself as a successful illustrator, working for publications such as The Sphere, The Illustrated London News, and The Graphic. During World War I, Matania became known for his powerful and emotive depictions of soldiers and battle scenes. He was commissioned by the British government to create propaganda posters and illustrations, which helped to boost morale and support for the war effort. Matania continued to work as an illustrator throughout his career, producing artwork for books, magazines, and advertisements. He was also a member of the Royal Society of British Artists and the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours. Matania's work is highly regarded for its technical skill and attention to detail, and his legacy continues to inspire artists today.