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Cardinal Decio Azzolino
  • TitleCardinal Decio Azzolino
  • Technique/ MaterialMarble
  • DimensionsDimensions: (h) 104 cm
  • DatingMade c. 1667
  • Artist/Maker Artist: Pietro Balestra, Italian, born ca 1672, dead efter 1729
  • CategorySculpture
  • Inventory No.NMSk 1455
  • AcquisitionGift 1940 Nationalmusei Vänner
  • Description
    Artist/Maker
    Images and media

    Cardinal Azzolino was chosen to act as the unofficial liaison between Queen Kristina and the Pope in 1655. This bust is a typical official portrait in the Roman Baroque style. The movement in the sculpture suggests that Azzolino is interrupted while in the middle of a thought. Kristina and Azzolino became close friends and shared many interests and political goals. He inherited Kristina’s art collection but died shortly after her.