ABSTRACT

This paper explores the architectural façade of Sant’ Andrea Al Quirinale, Rome. It is an impressive masterpiece of 17^th Century architecture by Gianlorenzo Bernini (1598-1680). The analysis of the façade is achieved through a study of the building design looking at the transepts, naves and the iconographical representations of the building.

Literature Review

Historical accounts of the architecture of Bernini come from reliable references, primarily selected books that provide an accurate of the architecture and buildings of this period. In particular the following books have been referenced for this paper. Magnuson. The Rome of Bernini (Vol1), Blunt, Borromini, Varriano, Italian Baroque and Rococo Architecture, Hibbard Maderno, Krautheimer, Rome of Alexander V11, Girouard, Cities and People, Pilgrims and Shrines, Eliza Allen Starr

INTRODUCTION

Bernini, (1598 –1680) was born to an accomplished sculptor father who’s work in Rome during Bernini’s formative years exposed the young boy to various works of antiquity which later guided him to becoming a student of Classical sculpture and the works of Michelangelo (Magnuson 1986).  As an adult, Bernini was recognized and came under the patronage of Pope Urban VIII.  His church work Bernini did not include many churches built from scratch, but rather on developing pre-existing structures, in particular St. Peter’s including the design of its piazza and colonnade.  Being a sculptor first, Bernini’s creations included several famous sculptures, the bronze baldachin over the tomb of St Peter in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and several Roman fountains that were both public works and papal monuments. Bernini is generally recognized as one of the most accomplished baroque architects. His works were particularly noted for the trompe-l’oeil and the use of massive pilasters above a rusticated base.

How important is the contribution of Bernini in the development of Baroque architecture and how might his architectural style be interpreted today examining exhibits like Sant’ Andrea Al Quirinale in Rome?

Significance of Bernini

Bernini was responsible for creating a new generation of architecture, painting and sculpture in the renaissance world. He was the leading sculptor of his age and in addition a prominent painter, playwright, metalworker and stage set designer.  He was recognized by Cardinal Scipiore for whom he produced a series of sculptures applicable to subjects of Davis metamorphosis from the bible. He developed a concept of multiple viewpoints and this can best be observed in his sculpture of Apollo and Daphne, where you gain different observations as you circumnavigate the sculpture. Bernini was similar to, and influence by Michelangelo in that he expected perfection from all those that worked with him. Bernini was made a papal knight at age 23 and lived under the sponsorship of Pope Urban VIII and during the Pontiff’s reign and became the most richly rewarded artist of his time.

Bernini became a favourite of the monarchs of his time and particularly King Louis of France, King Phillip of Spain and Queen Christina of Sweden. He even created a sculpture of King Charles 1st of England and his wife Henrietta. He became immensely wealthy and one of the most respected architects of his period.  His most famous work was arguably the design of the Piazza St Peter and the marvellous columns that surround the Vatican.