Bernini

by Howard Hibbard

Book Overview

Sculptor and architect Bernini was the virtual creator and greatest exponent of Baroque in 17th century Italy. He has left his greatest mark on Rome where Papal patronage provided him with enormous architectural commissions.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0140135987
• ISBN13: 9780140135985
• Release Date: January 1991
• Publisher: Penguin Books
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.73 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.2" x 7.6"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Very interesting read

The content i.e details of Bernini's sculpture is very interesting to know. The author makes us look at the sculptures in an expert way by mentioning things like - one sculpture having an inaccurate centre of gravity. The concept of one medium used to look like the other being immoral was new to me. And just one sentence that I needed to know, about how Bernini viewed his work -' he considered most of his works far inferior to the Beauty that he knew and conceived in his mind'. Bernini's work and his interest in it seems like 'progressive improvement'. So It was interesting to know that he was inspired in a way that didnt stop at one work or with the greater beauty that he saw, he never seems to have been at loss for inspiration. My favourite is Cornaro Chapel.

Hibbard is a master sculpture historian:

Hibbard is one of the world's most respected and informed historians of sculpture. And he's a good writer too. That sums up my review. Enjoy the reading and the wonderful photographs!!!

For Intelligent Novices

I love this book! I've never explored any art history books before, but this was a great first experience. Hibbard has a gift for explaining all of the details of Bernini's works, without bombarding you with unknown lingo or being long-winded. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you plan on going to Italy someday.