Lamberto Maggiorani (1909-1974) was an Italian actor, a symbol of cinematic Neorealism, despite not being a professional. A metallurgical worker at Alfa Romeo, he was discovered by Vittorio De Sica and chosen to play the role of Antonio Ricci in the masterpiece *Bicycle Thieves* (1948).

His authentic and touching performance, devoid of acting artifice, perfectly embodied the dignity and despair of the common man in post-war Italy, forced into an exhausting search for a stolen bicycle, his only means of livelihood. Maggiorani became the emblem of the struggle for survival and resilience.

Despite the film's worldwide success, his cinematic career never truly took off. He appeared in minor roles or cameos in a few other films, including *Anna* (1951) and *Don Camillo* (1952), but his impact remained inextricably linked to his sole and memorable leading performance. Maggiorani remains a key figure for understanding the poetics of Italian Neorealism.