The virtuoso sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini expressed unprecedented emotion in pieces exploding with vivezza. His innovations, like those of his Italian colleagues, were often driven by a visionary patron. In Bernini’s case, this was Maffeo Barberini. Upon becoming pope, in 1623, Barberini gave Bernini artistic control over the city’s architectural and artistic direction. Bernini worked on the interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica, created the Triton Fountain, and designed the massive bronze sculpture known as the Baldacchino. “It is your great fortune, Cavaliere,” Barberini said, “to see Maffeo Barberini as Pope; but our fortune is far greater that Gian Lorenzo Bernini lives under our pontificate.” This exhibition explores the relationship between artist and patron, and how it formed a foundation for the birth of the Baroque. —Elena Clavarino