Art
Works under Pope
Alexander VII
While working under Pope Alexander
VII, Bernini made his mark even more
in the streets of Rome when the new
Pope commissioned massive
architectural changes in the city.
Bernini’s biggest contribution during
this time period is the piazza leading
to St. Peter’s Basilica. Bernini was
the one who designed two iconic
semi-circle colonnades that have
created the arena from which the
world can see appointments of new
Popes and many other historic
appearances from the Pope. Bernini’s
use of columns and structure reins in
the giant space that was previously
wide open, and it brings focus to the
Vatican’s greatest landmark.
Beyond the Papacy
Along with his works around Rome,
Bernini received commissions from
all over Europe, from French royalty
to English nobility. Bernini has
created many busts of famous,
sculpted fountains, and has done
hundreds of works beyond what’s
described in this article. Bernini
was a highly sought artist, not just
because of his style and skill, but
also because of his diligence. The
number of works he produced along
with his apprentices is astonishing.
It is said that if you put together
all the hours he spent on meals and
sleep in his lifetime, it couldn’t
135
amount to a full month. Bernini ate
very little, and he spent little time
in sunlight due to migraines. His
self-discipline showed his dedication
to his craft, and it is due to his
effort that he is a permanent part of
the cultural history of Rome, right
along with the great Michelangelo.
I remember covering Bernini’s life
and career in one of my art classes in
college, and was amazed by his work
the most. Bernini’s work definitely
makes me want to travel to Rome,
and be among the millions who have
had the pleasure to view his Baroque
dramatics in person.
Sources
www.smithsonianmag.com/artsculture/berninis-genius11934809/?noist=&story=fullstory&page=1
www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/
bern/hd_bern.htm#slideshow4
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gian_
Lorenzo_Bernini