Francis Bacon (1909-1992) was an Irish-born, British figurative painter known for his emotionally charged and often disturbing artwork. He was born in Dublin, Ireland, to English parents but spent most of his life in London.

Bacon's artistic career began in the 1920s, and he initially worked as an interior decorator and furniture designer. However, he soon shifted his focus to painting and quickly gained recognition for his distinctive style. Bacon's works are characterized by their raw and visceral exploration of the human condition, often featuring contorted and anguished figures in nightmarish settings.

One of his most famous series is the "Pope" series, which includes powerful and haunting portraits of Pope Innocent X based on a painting by Diego Velázquez. These paintings are known for their intense psychological impact and have become iconic in the art world.

Throughout his career, Bacon's art was heavily influenced by existentialism, the horrors of the 20th century, and his personal experiences. He was openly gay at a time when homosexuality was not widely accepted, and themes of isolation, desire, and brutality often permeate his work.

Francis Bacon's contributions to contemporary art are significant, and he is considered one of the leading figures of the post-war art world. His paintings have been displayed in major museums and galleries worldwide, and his impact on the art world continues to be felt today. Bacon's exploration of the human psyche and his ability to evoke powerful emotions through his art make him a seminal figure in 20th-century art history.