When one thinks “Impressionist”, one’s attention immediately focuses on Monet, Renoir or Degas. Rarely do the names Giovanni Fattori, Telemico Signorini or Silvestro Lega come up. Despite being overshadowed by the French, these and other Macchiaioli pioneered both freer paint application and the importance of the sketch or “impression” of an image on the eye and intellect. Their artistic movement was intimately connected to the political movements of the day, especially the struggle for independence from foreign rule and the unification of Italy. They were crucial in creating a national identity and preserving the country’s heritage.