Bernini: Sculpting in Clay

by Ian Wardropper (Editor), Tony Sigel (Editor), C.D. Dickerson III (Editor)

The brilliantly expressive clay models created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598–1680) as "sketches" for his works in marble offer extraordinary insights into his creative imagination. Although long admired, the terracotta models have never been the subject of detailed examination. This publication presents a wealth of new discoveries (including evidence of the artist's fingerprints imprinted on the clay), resolving lingering issues of attribution while giving readers a vivid sense of how the artist and his assistants fulfilled a steady stream of monumental commissions. Essays describe Bernini's education as a modeler; his approach to preparatory drawings; his use of assistants; and the response to his models by 17th-century collectors. Extensive research by conservators and art historians explores the different types of models created in Bernini's workshop. Richly illustrated, Bernini transforms our understanding of the sculptor and his distinctive and fascinating working methods.

Genres: Art

432 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2012

Reviews

[Pedro Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some awesome insights around working with clay in a simple manner, describing how Bernini worked in some situations, techniques and workflow.

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked the book. A catalogue review of the bozzetti and modelli of this great sculptor is replete with minutiae of their construction, their attributive elements and their comparative importance to the finished products. Ah, the finished products: Inspired art! I was hoping to pick up some pointers as to why this man was so marvelous. Main pointer: he was talented. As to technique, I picked up nothing.Bernini, don't move over.

[Jonathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing to see the early prep of one of the old masters. Rare.