Francesco Borromini
Francesco Borromini: Master of Baroque Architecture
Francesco Borromini, originally named Francesco Castelli, was an eminent Swiss-Italian architect born on September 25, 1599, in Bissone, near Lake Lugano. He passed away in Rome on August 2, 1667. Borromini is revered for his innovative and daring forms in the Baroque architecture era, which diverged from the classical styles of his time, showcasing a profound mastery of complex geometric forms and a penchant for intricate detailing.
Early Life and Career
Borromini began his architectural career in Milan, where he was influenced by the works of Carlo Maderno, his distant relative and an established architect of that period. His move to Rome marked the beginning of his significant contributions to architecture, where he assisted Maderno in several projects, including the construction of the Palazzo Barberini.
Architectural Style and Major Works
Borromini's style is characterized by his innovative use of space and form. Unlike his contemporaries, he often employed concave and convex curves to create dynamic and dramatic effects. His works are known for their structural complexity and ornamental richness, hallmarks of the Baroque style.
One of his first independent commissions was the San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, also known as "San Carlino," a small church in Rome. This building is celebrated for its undulating walls and the use of geometric shapes, which create a sense of movement and fluidity.
Another notable work is the Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, where Borromini masterfully utilized the spiral, a symbol of wisdom and learning, which rises to a lantern crowning the dome.
Borromini was also involved in the redesign of the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran under the commission of Pope Innocent X, where he introduced innovative structural techniques.
Rivalry with Bernini
Borromini's career was notably marked by his intense rivalry with Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a prominent and influential figure in Baroque architecture and sculpture. Despite their professional animosity, the two architects' works defined the Roman Baroque era. Bernini's style was more theatrical and grandiose, while Borromini's was more introspective and intricate.
Personal Life and Legacy
Borromini's personality often constrained his career. He was known to be melancholic and quick-tempered, which affected his professional relationships and led to the withdrawal from certain commissions. His life ended tragically by suicide, a culmination of his psychological struggles.
Despite his relatively limited influence during his lifetime, Borromini's work left a lasting impact on European architecture, evident in the later Baroque works of architects like Guarino Guarini. His ideas have been revisited and appreciated for their complexity and artistic depth, and he was even featured on the Swiss 100 Franc banknote, highlighting his cultural significance in Switzerland.