Benvenuto Cellini
(1500 - 1571) |
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Sculptures, silverware, medallions, mythological themes; Classical Art Work
| Name: |
Benvenuto Cellini |
| Gender: |
Male |
| Place of Birth: |
Florence, Italy |
| Nationality: |
Italian |
| Birth: |
1500 |
| Death: |
1571 |
| Website: |
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| Past Auctions: |
Click Here |
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Quick Facts
| Known For: |
Sculptures, silverware, medallions, mythological themes; Classical |
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| Method: |
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| Style: |
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| Fine Art Profession(s): |
1886
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Biography
| Benvenuto Cetlini is remembered for his spectacular talents as a sculptor and goldsmith. His skill won him the patronage of nobles, kings, and popes and saved him from a four year prison sentence when the Medici family intervened. Cellini's father was a musical instrument maker and musician. Cellini apprenticed himself to goldsmith Antonio Ma rcone di Sandro. Following a brawl, he fled to Siena, where he was apprenticed to goldsmith Francesco Castoro. He moved on to Bologna, Pisa, and eventually to Rome, at the age of nineteen. In Rome he worked for noble families. A fine flautist, he was appointed court musician and went on to work for Pope Clement VII. He won papal affection, in particular for his courage in the 1527 Sack of Rome when he is said to have shot and killed the invading Duke of Bourbon. His work for the pope allowed him to travel widely. In 1529 he had to flee to Naples after shooting a man in revenge for killing his brother. Once again, he was pardoned and found favor with the new pontiff. Pope Paul III. From 1540 to 1545 he worked in France for King Francis I on the chateau of Fontainebleau. Returning to Florence, he worked for Duke Cosimo I de 'Medici, making the bronze statue Perseus with the Head of Medusa 1545. In 1562 he carved a large ivory Crucifix based on an earlier vision experienced in prison. He began a racy autobiography. |
Samples of Work
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