Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598–1680)
Bernini was a pre-eminent Baroque sculptor, painter and architect of 17th century Rome.
Bernini was born in Naples to Pietro Bernini, a capable Mannerist sculptor from Florence. At the age of seven he accompanied his father to Rome, where his skills were noticed by the painter Annibale Carracci and by Pope Paul V, further he gained the patronage of Cardinal Scipione Borghese. From this point his prominece as a sculptor rose rapidly. Bernini's sculptural output was immense and varied.
Bernini's first architectural project was the St. Peter's baldachin from 1624 to 1633, the canopy over the high altar of St. Peter's Basilica, and the façade for the church of Santa Bibiana. He died in 1680.
Important works by Gian Lorenzo Bernini
- Palazzo Barberini
- Palazzo Chigi
- Palazzo Ludovisi
- Saint Peter, Vatican
