Gian Lorenzo Bernini

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Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Self-portrait of Bernini, c. 1623
Born	Gian Lorenzo Bernini 7 December 1598 Naples, Kingdom of Naples
Died	28 November 1680 (aged 81) Rome, Papal States
Nationality	Italian
Known for	Sculpture, architecture, painting
Notable work	Apollo and Daphne, Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, David, Fountain of the Four Rivers
Movement	Baroque
Patron(s)	Pope Urban VIII, Pope Innocent X, Pope Alexander VII

Gian Lorenzo Bernini (7 December 1598 – 28 November 1680) was an Italian sculptor and architect. He is credited with creating the Baroque style of sculpture and is considered one of the greatest sculptors of the 17th century. Bernini's works are characterized by their dynamic movement, dramatic use of light and shadow, and intricate details.

Early Life

Bernini was born in Naples, the sixth of thirteen children of Pietro Bernini, a prominent Mannerist sculptor, and Angelica Galante. The family moved to Rome when Gian Lorenzo was a child, where his father worked on various commissions. Bernini showed prodigious talent from an early age, and by the age of 20, he had already gained significant recognition.

Major Works

Bernini's most famous works include:

• Apollo and Daphne (1622–1625) – A marble sculpture depicting the mythological story of Apollo and Daphne.
• David (1623–1624) – A dynamic representation of the biblical hero David.
• Ecstasy of Saint Teresa (1647–1652) – A sculpture located in the Cornaro Chapel of the church of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome, depicting the mystical experience of Saint Teresa of Ávila.
• Fountain of the Four Rivers (1651) – A monumental fountain in the Piazza Navona in Rome, representing four major rivers of the four continents known at the time: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Rio de la Plata.

Architectural Contributions

Bernini was also a renowned architect. His most significant architectural achievements include:

• The Baldachin (1624–1633) – A large Baroque sculpted bronze canopy over the high altar of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.
• The Colonnade of St. Peter's Square (1656–1667) – A grand elliptical colonnade surrounding St. Peter's Square, designed to embrace visitors in the "maternal arms of Mother Church."
• The Sant'Andrea al Quirinale (1658–1670) – A small Baroque church in Rome, considered one of Bernini's architectural masterpieces.

Influence and Legacy

Bernini's influence on the Baroque style was profound. His ability to convey intense emotion and movement in his sculptures set a new standard for artistic expression. His works inspired countless artists and architects throughout Europe and beyond.

Related Pages

• Baroque
• Sculpture
• Architecture
• St. Peter's Basilica
• Piazza Navona
• Cornaro Chapel
• Santa Maria della Vittoria