In 1627 Bernini replaced Carlo Maderno as the chief architect for St. Peter's Basilica and was given complete control over any new projects in St. Peter's until 1647, three years … See more

It is likely that the early bozzetto (a rough model made in terracotta), held in the Fogg Art Museum and dated to ca. 1631, was done by Bernini as he continued to work through various … See more

Longinus was the blind Roman soldier who speared Jesus in the side during the crucifixion. He was alleged to have converted to Christianity after the event, having realized Jesus was the son of God. When converting to Christianity, Longinus was cured of his … See more

Bernini is known for using intense emotion to communicate a psychological or spiritual awakening in his subject. The way in which he depicted a subject's fabric was often manipulated by Bernini to enhance the drama of the scene. Longinus's clothes twist and billow … See more

Begun in 1545, the Council of Trent impacted the content of religious art throughout sixteenth and seventeenth century. The Council … See more

Bernini captures the moment when Longinus experiences his spiritual awakening. His face looks up towards the sky with a partially open mouth to indicate his spiritual awakening. The Holy Lance is thrust to the side and his armor and military apparatus … See more

An engraving by H Frezza, created in 1696, exists in the Wellcome Library, London. See more