Baroque Blog
Bernini began the piece in 1621 and finished it in 1622. The piece has an intention to tell the myth of Pluto and Proserpina from ancient Greek and Roman mythology. It is made of marble though it seems hard to believe while seeing the details of Pluto's strong hands grasping Prosperina's soft thighs. Rape should be referred to as an abduction rather than assumed in its sexual context. It was commisioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who is considered a royalty from that time. Bernini's most famous work Apollo and Daphne.
The Borghese family was influential during the Baroque period since they were considered nobles. Pope Paul V nominated Scipione Broghese to become his cardinal. This places Cardinal Scipione in a role to lead the church politics but was more famously known for his influence and cultivation of the arts. His influence further encouraged Bernini to create multiple sculptures. Without Cardinal Scipione's influence, most of the art that is associated with Baroque would probably not exist.
This piece is crazy! I'm always surprised by how much a sculpture can bring a story to life. As shocking and horrifying this story is, the movement and angles of this piece are incredible. I'm also reflecting on the fact that this work was commissioned as many other pieces of art were commissioned during this time. It makes me wonder how much of the art we see from the Baroque era was not just influenced but directed by the noble families? Where the stories in the paintings of the Baroque era coming more from the artist or the noble?
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