BERNINI, Gian Lorenzo
(b. 1598, Napoli, d. 1680, Roma)

Throne (Cathedra) of St Peter (detail)

1657-66
Bronze
Basilica di San Pietro, Vatican

Supporting the structure of the Cathedra are the four fathers of the Church: St Ambrose, St Augustine, St Athanasius and St John Chrysostom. Rendered twice-life size, these hugely dominating figures represent the sanctity of the Cult of Saints and their continuity with present-day bishops.

The picture shows the figure of St Augustine.