Gian Lorenzo Bernini, often simply referred to as Bernini, was an Italian artist and architect of the Baroque period, born on December 7, 1598, in Naples, and died on November 28, 1680, in Rome. He is recognized as one of the most influential figures in the history of art for his contributions to sculpture, painting, architecture, and stage design.
Bernini was the sixth of thirteen children born to Pietro Bernini, a Florentine sculptor, and Angelica Galante, a Neapolitan noblewoman. His father recognized his talent early on and took him to Rome in 1606, where Bernini would spend most of his life. Under his father's tutelage, Bernini quickly mastered the art of sculpting, showing a remarkable ability to capture emotion and movement in marble.
Bernini's career was greatly shaped by his patrons, particularly Pope Urban VIII, who provided him with numerous commissions. His influence extended beyond art into politics and religion, where he used his art to serve the Counter-Reformation's agenda by creating works that would inspire awe and devotion.
Bernini's work had a profound impact on the development of the Baroque style, which emphasized grandeur, sensuality, and dynamic movement. His ability to convey drama through the interaction of light and shadow, his use of marble to simulate flesh, and his architectural innovations continue to influence artists and architects.