Gino de Finetti was among the most important illustrators of the Alps-Adriatic region between the wars. He was a painter and printmaker who became well-known for his advertising art. At the age of 18 he went to München to study under, amongst others, animal sculptor Willy Zügel. Under Zügel influence horses and riders became one of de Finetti’s topics. He perfected his style in France and Italy, drawing inspiration from neo-impressionists. In addition to oil painting, he devoted himself increasingly to graphic techniques like lithography and etching. Here, he produced many works with sporting motives. He worked several magazines, such as the Simplicissimus and Jugend and was a member of the Berlin Secession from 1906-12. He lived for more than 30 years in Germany.