DUQUESNOY, FRANÇOIS

(1597-1643)

Flemish sculptor from Brussels who spent most of his career inRome. Duquesnoy was trained by his father, Jerome, who was also a sculptor. In 1618, he moved to Rome, and became close friends withNicolas PoussinandAndrea Sacchi. Together, these three masters did much to advanceBaroque classicismin the papal city. Duquesnoy'sSt.Susanna(1629-1633) in the Church of Santa Maria di Loreto, Rome, is one of his most famous works. Inspired byGian Lorenzo Bernini'sSt.Bibianaand an ancient statue ofUraniathen in the Capitol,Giovan Pietro Belloripraised Duquesnoy's figure and declared it the canon for the depiction of clothed saints. Duquesnoy'sSt.Andrew(1629-1633) is one of four works commissioned byUrban VIIIfor the crossing (where thenaveandtranseptcross) ofSt.Peter's, executed under Bernini's direction. This commanding figure leans on the cross of his martyrdom, extends his left arm, and looks up to the heavens where he will be granted salvation. His dramatic gesture, flowing drapery, and emotive restraint define the work as classicist. Duquesnoy died a premature death in 1643.