Kneeling Angel

Artistdesign by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (Italian, 1598 – 1680)

Artistsculpting by Giuliano Finelli (Italian, 1601/02 - 1653)

Datec. 1626

MediumTerracotta

Dimensions6 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 6 1/2 in. (16.5 x 26.7 x 16.5 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineMuseum purchase, 1960

Object numberSN5445

This small terracotta angel is a bozzetto, or study, for a large-scale marble sculpture that was designed for the high altar of the church of Sant'Agostino in Rome. The agitated drapery and sense of movement are typical of Bernini's works. His sweeping, dramatic style epitomized the High Baroque, and he was responsible for some of the most important sculptures and monuments of 17th-century Rome. Like his northern contemporary Peter Paul Rubens, Bernini required a large studio to handle his copious commissions. Though designed by Bernini, this piece was likely executed by one of his assistants, possibly Giuliano Finelli.

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