Delivered at the turn of the twentieth century, Riegl's groundbreaking lectures called for the Baroque period to be judged by its own rules and not merely as a period of decline.

This study provides an introduction to the glories of Roman baroque architecture and its three greatest exponents, Bernini, Borromini and Cortona.

Examines seventeenth-century sculpture in Rome. Focuses on questions of historical context and criticism, including the interaction of theory and practice, the creative roles of sculptors and patrons, the relationship of sculpture to antique models and to contemporary painting, and contextual meaning and reception.

Draws on contemporary biographies and a wealth of hitherto unpublished archival material to illuminate the position and practice of the Baroque sculptor, to enable the reader to appreciate, understand and evaluate the sculptural monuments of the Roman Baroque.