Bernini's Rare Sculptures on View at Vatican Museums for Jubilee 2025

The Vatican Museums in Rome are hosting an unprecedented exhibition of Gian Lorenzo Bernini's early masterpieces, "Anima beata" and "Anima dannata," as part of the cultural events for the Jubilee 2025. The two marble sculptures, created in 1619 when Bernini was just 21, depict the contrasting states of a blessed soul and a damned soul. They are normally housed at the Embassy of Spain to the Holy See and are rarely accessible to the public. This is only the third time they have been exhibited. The show, titled "Le Anime del Bernini," runs until January 31, 2025. The works were a first major commission from a Spanish prelate, establishing Bernini's lifelong connection with Spain. Co-curator Helena Pérez Gallardo noted that the sculptures metaphorically represent the Baroque genius's relationship with Spain throughout his life. Co-curator Barbara Jatta emphasized the significance of holding the exhibition just before the opening of the Holy Year 2025, which begins on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica, where Bernini created the Baldacchino and the Cathedra. The Jubilee is focused on the theme of Hope, and the sculptures exemplify the fruitful encounter between art and faith from four centuries ago.