Cardinal Antonio Barberini, the Younger
Artist: Francesco Mochi (Italian, 1580-1654)
Date: about 1629
Dimensions:
with base, H: 39 1/4 in. (99.7 cm)
without base, H: 32 3/4 in. (83.2 cm)
Medium: marble
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 1965.176
Label Text:Though ultimately based on classical Roman portrait sculpture, this marble bust of Cardinal Antonio Barberini (1608-1671) displays the dynamism typical of Baroque sculpture. The image is enlivened by the turning head and slightly opened mouth. The silky material of the short cardinal’s cloak ripples, and the hair seems to have a life of its own. Francesco Mochi understood the important role of light in bringing his sculpture “to life,” and he masterfully creates highlights and shadows that animate the portrait.
Antonio Barberini was a member of an aristocratic Roman family that accumulated power and great wealth after his uncle, Maffeo Barberini, became Pope Urban VIII in 1623. Antonio collected an extensive library and was a great patron of the arts, as was his brother, Francesco, who commissioned the painting by Pietro da Cortona in this gallery. This bust was likely made to celebrate Antonio’s elevation to the cardinalship, which his uncle the pope granted him at the very young age of 19.
Antonio Barberini was a member of an aristocratic Roman family that accumulated power and great wealth after his uncle, Maffeo Barberini, became Pope Urban VIII in 1623. Antonio collected an extensive library and was a great patron of the arts, as was his brother, Francesco, who commissioned the painting by Pietro da Cortona in this gallery. This bust was likely made to celebrate Antonio’s elevation to the cardinalship, which his uncle the pope granted him at the very young age of 19.
DescriptionMarble, socle done in black marble.
On view
In Collection(s)