An Italian delegation from Légende: Pietrantonio Bruno

Come discover this talented Italian illustrator, present for the first time at trolls & Légendes!

Biography & background

Originally from Barletta, where he was born in 1996, Pietrantonio Bruno quickly established himself as one of the most promising revelations in contemporary comics.

His academic journey at the International School of Comics in Rome laid the foundation for a unique style, deeply influenced by a passion for mythological narratives and epic aesthetics. He began his career in the Italian market with Bugs Comics, notably on the science fiction series Alieni, before crossing national borders to collaborate with industry giants such as Dark Horse Comics.

However, it was his encounter with the Franco-Belgian market and Éditions Le Lombard that marked a true turning point in his career. Partnering with writer Cédric Mayen, he adapted the complex universe of Pax Elfica, originally a role-playing game by Claude Guéant. From the very first volume, titled L'Auberge de l'Epée (2024), Pietrantonio showcases the full extent of his talent. His realistic line work captures the essence of a dark and political fantasy where the enchantment of the settings conceals a latent hostility. He depicts a magical world tinged with violence, where every architectural detail and every character expression serves a fluid narrative.

The confirmation of his status as an essential author comes with the second volume, published in June 2025. In this installment, the dramatic intensity escalates, exploring a bold inversion of classic codes: here, the Elves take on the role of antagonists, imposing a cold and ruthless occupation. Pietrantonio's mastery in creating oppressive atmospheres and the psychological characterization of individuals is impeccable. Between graphic virtuosity and thematic depth, Pietrantonio BRUNO does not merely illustrate a story; he builds a powerful visual universe that now places him among the young illustrators to watch!

Exclusive info

Pax Elfica volume 2 is among the nominees for the Troll d'Or comic book award, graphic category for its incredible artwork.

Pax Elfica - summary

Since they freed the world from the threat of a Necromancer, the Elves have established the Pax Elfica, an authoritarian regime that prohibits any use of magic by other races. But young Tano has grown up in the small multicultural world of his father Klaus's inn, where dwarves, halflings, barbarians, and refugees coexist. So for him, there is no question of obediently following the self-proclaimed masters of the city: every night, under the hood of "The Arrow," he sabotages their patrols and defies their authority. Until the evening he finds himself contaminated by a mysterious elven seed.