Gian Lorenzo Bernini was probably the best 17th-century sculptor.Historical writers frequently attribute Bernini’s creation of the Baroque style of sculpture to him, challenging contemporary artistic traditions.However, the sculptor’s assistant Giuliano Finelli made a significant contribution to his success that many people were unaware of.In point of fact, Finelli’s creations were as breathtaking as Bernini’s masterpieces.
Finelli was born in Torrano di Carrara, Italy, in 1601. His uncle, a stonecutter at the time, taught him how to work with marble.He began formal sculpting instruction at the age of ten in the studio of a well-known Neapolitan sculptor.He moved to Rome in 1622, where he met Bernini.Bernini hired the budding sculptor as his assistant after being astonished by Finelli’s exceptional carving abilities.
Giuliano Finelli, an Italian sculptor, was well-known for the exquisite texture and detail work he did on his marble sculptures.
It was common knowledge at the time that Bernini was the powerful Pope Urban VIII’s favorite sculptor.As a result, Finelli was able to expand his political network and improve his artistic skills by working with him.He also enjoyed the opportunity to work on extremely significant works.The bust of Maria Duglioli Barberini, the niece of Pope Urban VIII, was one of these.
The Bust of Maria Duglioli Barberini, Niece of Pope Urban VIII, was one of Finelli’s most well-known works.
Finelli paid great attention to detail and was able to accurately depict Barberini’s face on the sculpture.Furthermore, he meticulously created every detail.In point of fact, the lace insertion that surrounded the ruff of the bust was incredibly realistic.It was difficult to tell it apart from the real thing.Barberini’s dress’s intricate beadwork was accurately depicted, as were the tiniest details of her pearl necklace.
He was responsible for carving the smaller details in many of Bernini’s masterpieces, including Apollo and Daphne, though few people knew about it.
His creations were made even more impressive by the fact that Finelli was working with marble that was incredibly hard.Sadly, there were a lot of rumors about how well the artists worked together.The silent rivalry between the two was the most prevalent of these.Finelli is said to have taken Bernini’s refusal to acknowledge Finelli’s contributions to his works very seriously.
As a result, Finelli began establishing himself as a self-taught sculptor in 1629.The majority of his commissions were for saint statues, including 13 bronze statues for a chapel in San Gennaro.Additionally, he created a number of portrait busts for church officials and local aristocrats.Finelli passed away in Rome in 1653 for unknown reasons, but Bernini will always be remembered for the contribution he made to his success.