Gioachino Rossini (29 February 1792 – 13 November 1868) was an Italian composer who gained fame for his 39 operas, although he also wrote many songs, some chamber music and piano pieces, as well as sacred music. He set new standards for both comic and serious opera before retiring from large-scale composition while still in his thirties, at the height of his popularity. By the early 1850s, Rossini's mental and physical health had deteriorated; he moved to Paris for the more advanced medical care available, remaining there for the rest of his life. His health improved, and he started composing again. He and his wife established a musical salon in Paris on Saturday evenings, which became internationally renowned.
This photograph of Rossini, by French journalist, caricaturist and photographer Étienne Carjat, was taken in 1865.Photograph credit: Étienne Carjat; restored by Adam Cuerden