Giuliano Finelli facts for kids
Giuliano Finelli (1601–1653) was a talented Italian sculptor from the 1600s. He was known for his detailed work. Finelli learned his craft in the famous workshop of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who was one of the greatest artists of the Baroque period.
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Early Life and Training
Giuliano Finelli was born in 1601 in Carrara, Italy. His family worked with marble, a stone used for sculptures. Carrara was well-known for its marble quarries. Giuliano first trained with another sculptor named Michelangelo Naccherino. Later, he joined the busy workshop of Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Working with Bernini
Finelli worked in Bernini's studio for several years. He helped create some of Bernini's famous sculptures. However, in 1629, Finelli decided to leave. He felt that Bernini did not give him enough credit for his work. For example, Finelli believed he should have been recognized for the amazing details in Bernini's Apollo and Daphne statue. He also felt overlooked when another artist, Andrea Bolgi, received a major project for St. Peter's Basilica. After leaving Bernini, Finelli found work with the help of artist Pietro da Cortona.
Finelli's Unique Sculpting Style
Finelli and Bernini were both great sculptors, but they had different styles. Finelli was very careful about carving tiny details. He loved to add delicate lace or intricate patterns to his sculptures. Sometimes, this focus on small details made his art seem less emotional.
Comparing Their Art
Bernini, on the other hand, focused more on showing strong feelings and the inner thoughts of his subjects. He was less concerned with tiny frills. You can see this difference in their sculptures of Cardinal Scipione Borghese. Bernini's portrait of the Cardinal looks lively and full of movement. Finelli's portrait is more serious and quiet. Finelli also created a sculpture of Cardinal Giulio Antonio Santorio around 1630. This piece is located in San Giovanni in Laterano.
Later Career in Naples
A few years after leaving Bernini's workshop, Finelli moved to Naples, Italy. He traveled there with his student and nephew, Domenico Guidi. Finelli became well-known in Naples for his portraits and statues. Many of his important works are found in the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro. You can also see his sculptures in the Cathedral of Naples. In Naples, Finelli had to compete with another famous sculptor named Cosimo Fanzago for new projects.
Death
Giuliano Finelli passed away in Rome in 1653. The exact reasons for his death are not known.
