Saint Agnes

Gian Lorenzo Bernini

early 18th century · Bronze · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

The saint is shown standing, her gaze lifted to heaven to emphasize her ecstatic expression. She wears a robe and heavy cloak and holds a palm symbolizing her martyrdom. A lamb, symbol of Saint Agnes, is depicted crouching at her feet. Another example of this statuette is in the Chapel of Palazzo Doria, Rome.

Artist

Gian Lorenzo Bernini

Date

early 18th century

Medium

Bronze

Culture

Italian, Rome

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Purchase, Bequest of Vivian W. Lehman, 1978