Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Marble
Sant’ Angelos Bridge
approximately 6'
This sculpture is one of the most notable pieces on the bridge which leads fromm the Vatican to Castle Sant’ Angelos, which is located on Sant’ Angelos bridge, Bernini’s exhibit in Rome. Sant’ Angelos Bridge was built over the Tiber River during the reign of Hadrian in 135 A.D. The bridge consists of seven stone arches and five main spans of about 60 feet. In the 17thcentury Bernini placed ten of his angel sculptures on the bridge. There is an interesting inscription on the angel with a sponge that says “They gave me vinegar to drink”. This Angel is holding a sponge which is symbolic of an instrument that resembles the passion of Christ. The holy sponge was used to wipe vinegar over the wounds of people during there crucifixion because it would stanch the blood which would intern allow the criminal to continue persecution for longer. This angel is symbolic of the agony and pain Jesus Christ went through to cover our sins with his blood.
Resources
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/523159/SantAngelo-Bridge
http://www.catholictreasures.com/articles/oninstrm.html
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