BERNINI, Gian Lorenzo
(b. 1598, Napoli, d. 1680, Roma)

The Rape of Proserpina (detail)

1621-22
Marble
Galleria Borghese, Rome

The varied treatment of the surfaces, from the roughness of Cerberus's pelt to the sensual softness of Proserpine's flesh, allowed the artist to transcend the limits of marble in his powerful simulation of reality.