Gian Lorenzo Bernini remained unchallenged as the foremost sculptor of his time from his early days as a child prodigy until his death in 1680 at the age of 82.

Born in Naples in 1598, Bernini spent most of his adult life in Rome, a city his numerous architectural projects would eventually transform. Trained in his father's studio, Bernini rapidly obtained important commissions of his own.

Bernini's architectural designs are conspicuous in their innovative combination of architecture and sculpture, named 'bel composto', as well as in their exploitation of natural light and space.

Interestingly, Bernini was also active as a set designer, playwright, and director.