Antonio Balestra: A Life in Rococo Art Early Life and Training Antonio Balestra (born August 12, 1666, Verona, Italy – died April 21, 1740) was a prominent Italian painter of the Rococo period. His artistic journey began with an apprenticeship under Giovanni Zeffio in his native Verona. This foundational training provided him with early skills in drawing and painting techniques. Artistic Development & Influences By 1690, Balestra moved to Venice, where he further honed his skills under the guidance of Antonio Bellucci for three years. He then traveled to Bologna and subsequently Rome, worki…