A Look Into Bernini’s Artistic Growth
In the heart of Rome, the exhibition “Bernini e i Barberini” examines the profound relationship between the master sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his chief patron, Pope Urban VIII Barberini. Situated within the Palazzo Barberini, this show delves into Bernini’s development under his father, Pietro Bernini, shedding light on early influences that shaped his artistic trajectory.
The exhibition opens with works by Pietro, illustrating different surface textures achieved by “painting with the chisel,” as noted in Filippo Baldinucci’s 1682 biography of Gian Lorenzo. One prominent piece, “Adam, Eve, and the Serpent” (1620–22), captivates with its realistic depiction, featuring Adam as an ordinary figure rather than a carved embodiment of classical heroism.
Christian Themes and Bernini’s Heroic Sculptures
Gian Lorenzo’s own works, like “Saint Sebastian” (1617–18) and “The Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence” (1616–17), contrast with Pietro’s softer figures by celebrating a more heroic Christian masculinity. These sculptures embody Bernini’s integration of sacred and sexual themes, presenting martyrs with an athletic beauty and calm resignation.
Public Commissions and Revolutionary Portraiture
Bernini’s public commissions under Urban VIII are sparse in the exhibition, reminding visitors of the original masterpieces in Saint Peter’s Basilica. Notable is the immense bronze Baldacchino (1624–33), highlighted through preparatory models and designs.
The exhibition’s core features Bernini’s portraiture, revolutionizing sculptural portraits in religious and secular contexts with busts of the Barberini family. Giuliano Finelli’s bust of poet Michelangelo Buonarroti the Younger stands out for its exquisite detail.
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The Personal Touch: Costanza Bonarelli’s Bust
Among the portraits, the true standout is the intimate 1636–37 bust of Costanza Bonarelli. Bernini’s relationship with her ended tumultuously, but the piece remains a testament to his ability to breathe life into marble, capturing her in a state of informal grace.
While the exhibition lacks an English-language catalog, it leaves visitors with a deepened appreciation for Bernini’s genius amid glimpses of his personal complexities. “Bernini e i Barberini” continues at the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Barberini until June 14, curated by Andrea Bacchi and Maurizia Cicconi, offering a compelling narrative of a pivotal Baroque artist.
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Source: hyperallergic.com