Fritz Wotruba
Austrian sculptor of abstract forms
Austrian sculptor contributed significantly to modern sculpture, primarily focusing on abstract forms. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. His work often explored themes of humanity and existence, incorporating geometric shapes and rough textures. Created notable public installations throughout Austria. The most recognized piece, 'The Monument to the Unknown Political Prisoner,' graces the city of Vienna. Worked with materials such as stone and concrete, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles. His contributions have been honored posthumously through exhibitions and retrospectives.
Created 'The Monument to the Unknown Political Prisoner' in Vienna
Worked extensively with geometric abstraction in stone
Exhibited at the Vienna Secession
Other People Born on April 23rd
Afonso II of Portugal
King of Portugal and organizer of the kingdom
Born
April 23rd, 1185 840 years ago
Died
1223 803 years ago — 38 years old
Ruled as King of Portugal from 1211 to 1223. Focused on consolidating royal authority and improving administrative structures. Known for issuing significant legal reforms and establishing the earliest known royal charters for towns. His reign faced challenges from his barons and external forces, leading to periods of conflict. In 1215, initiated the first Portuguese charter for city governance, promoting local autonomy. Attempts to strengthen the monarchy included military campaigns against the Moors in the south and the consolidation of territory in the region of the modern-day Algarve.
Continue ReadingShirley Temple
Actress and diplomat, child star
Born
April 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
An American actress gained fame as a child star during the Great Depression. Starred in several popular films including 'Bright Eyes' and 'Curly Top'. Transitioned to a career in diplomacy, serving as the United States Ambassador to Ghana and Czechoslovakia. Received numerous accolades, including a special Academy Award at age six for her contributions to the film industry. Worked extensively in charitable activities throughout her life.
Continue ReadingFélix Vicq-d'Azyr
Anatomist and physician in France
Born
April 23rd, 1748 277 years ago
Died
1794 232 years ago — 46 years old
A significant figure in the field of anatomy, contributed to the understanding of human structure through meticulous dissections and observations. Developed and promoted the practice of comparative anatomy, enhancing knowledge of biological sciences. Authored influential works that set a foundation for modern anatomical studies. Also played a crucial role in the establishment of the French Academy of Sciences, where advancement in medical knowledge was prioritized during the late 18th century.
Continue ReadingPrincess Charlotte Amalie Wilhelmine of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön
German noble, Duchess of Cumberland
Born
April 23rd, 1744 281 years ago
Died
1770 256 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1744, Charlotte Amalie was a German noble who became the Duchess of Cumberland through marriage. She was part of the extended royal family in Germany and played a significant role in the courts of her time. Her life was marked by her connections to various royal families in Europe, particularly through her marriage to Prince Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. The couple had several children, which further established familial links between the German duchies and other European royal houses. Charlotte Amalie's lineage is significant in the context of European nobility and has implications for the history of German princely families.
Continue ReadingRuggero Leoncavallo
Italian composer of the opera Pagliacci
Born
April 23rd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Born in Italy, a composer gained prominence for contributions to the operatic genre. The most recognized work, 'Pagliacci', premiered in 1892 and became a staple of the operatic repertoire. His other significant works include 'Zaza' and 'I Medici'. Leoncavallo focused on the verismo style, emphasizing realistic narratives and emotional depth in his compositions. He also wrote numerous orchestral and vocal pieces throughout his career.
Continue ReadingThomas Romney Robinson
Astronomer and physicist with noted works
Born
April 23rd, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions included advancements in observational astronomy and experiments in terrestrial physics. Served as the first Director of the Armagh Observatory in Ireland, a position held from 1823 until 1882, impacting astronomical studies. Developed significant meteorological instruments and undertook various studies related to atmospheric phenomena. Actively published research in various scientific journals during the 19th century, aiding the dissemination of knowledge in astronomy and physics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 28th
Mireille Darc
French actress, director in 'Death of a Corrupt Man'
Born
May 15th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1938, this French actress became a prominent figure in film and television. She gained recognition for her roles in French cinema during the 1960s and 1970s, collaborating with renowned filmmakers. The performance in the film 'Death of a Corrupt Man' contributed significantly to her reputation. In addition to acting, she ventured into directing and screenwriting, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous films and television series, gaining a dedicated following and respect among peers.
Continue ReadingFederico II Gonzaga
Duke of Mantua and renowned patron
Born
May 17th, 1500 525 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1540 485 years ago — 40 years old
Duke of Mantua from 1540 until death in 1546, held significant power in the Italian states during the Renaissance. Established Mantua as a cultural hub, fostering the arts and attracting notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Titian. Inherited the duchy and worked on strengthening its economy and military. Known for his contributions to the development of the arts and architecture in Mantua, including support for the construction of the Palazzo Te, a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture. Engaged in political alliances and conflicts, including involvement in the Franco-Italian Wars.
Continue ReadingAxel Oxenstierna
Swedish Lord High Chancellor, statesman
Born
June 16th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1654 371 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1583, a prominent Swedish statesman served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden during a period of political and military expansion. Played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War, enhancing Sweden's influence in Europe. Administratively reformed the Swedish government and military, laying groundwork for Sweden's rise as a great power in the 17th century. Advocated for centralization of power and was instrumental in developing Sweden's administrative structure that included a more efficient taxation system and military organization. His policies had lasting effects on Swedish politics and governance.
Continue ReadingBohuslav Martinů
Czech-American composer and pianist
Born
December 8th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1959 66 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1890, a prominent composer and pianist contributed significantly to 20th-century classical music. He studied at the Prague Conservatory and later moved to Paris, where he became involved with the avant-garde music scene. Martinů's work was influenced by folk music, including that of his native Bohemia, as well as neoclassical styles. His compositions include symphonies, operas, and chamber music, showcasing a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. He eventually settled in the United States, where he continued to compose and gained recognition for his innovative compositions. His works, noted for their rhythmic vitality and intricate counterpoint, receive frequent performances worldwide.
Continue ReadingReuvein Margolies
Ukrainian-Israeli author and scholar
Born
November 30th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Ukraine in 1889, a scholar who significantly contributed to Jewish literature and history. Immigrated to Israel, where worked as an educator and wrote extensively on Jewish culture, language, and history. Authored several books addressing Jewish identity and tradition, playing a role in the intellectual discourse of the time. Engaged in various educational initiatives to promote Jewish studies.
Continue ReadingNelson Shanks
American painter and portrait artist
Born
December 23rd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American painter, historian, and educator, celebrated for contributions to the portrait genre. Shanks studied at the Art Students League of New York and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Notable works include commissioned portraits of various U.S. presidents and prominent figures. His teaching career encompassed roles at respected institutions, where he influenced emerging artists through comprehensive programs in classical techniques and art history. Shanks's approach combined traditional methods with modern sensibilities, shaping the understanding of portraiture in contemporary art.
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