Duquesnoy, François

(1597-1643)

   Flemish sculptor from Brussels who spent most of his career in Rome. Duquesnoy was trained by his father, Jerome, who was also a sculptor. In 1618, he moved to Rome, and became close friends with Nicolas Poussin and Andrea Sacchi. Together, these three masters did much to advance Baroque classicism in the papal city. Duquesnoy's St. Susanna (1629-1633) in the Church of Santa Maria di Loreto, Rome, is one of his most famous works. Inspired by Gian Lorenzo Bernini's St. Bibiana and an ancient statue of Urania then in the Capitol, Giovan Pietro Bellori praised Duquesnoy's figure and declared it the canon for the depiction of clothed saints. Duquesnoy's St. Andrew (1629-1633) is one of four works commissioned by Urban VIII for the crossing (where the nave and transept cross) of St. 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.