Book excerpt: The first book to focus on the war paintings of one of the greatest global artists of World War I From the sinking of the Titanic in 1912 through to capturing the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, Fortunino Matania recorded almost every major event of the century. Yet, for many, it is his World War I paintings that remain the most haunting. As a war artist, he recorded some of the most emotive scenes of trench warfare to emerge from the war. His work brought the reality of life on the frontline home through his drawings and paintings and he became world renowned as he created patriotic works for Britain and America. This compilation brings the power of his work to a new generation to mark the centenary of World War I.