Departures of note

Giuseppe Casciaro was born in Ortelle, Province of Lecce, and orphaned at twelve. He was raised by his paternal uncle, a priest, and attended the lyceum gymnasium of Maglie, where his uncle hoped he would begin medical studies.

While at the lyceum, Casciaro received art instruction from Paolo Emilio Stasi, who helped him enroll in the Neapolitan Academy of Fine Arts under Morelli and Palizzi. His uncle believed Casciaro was in Naples attending university; when he learned of the deception, he ceased his support.