Italian sculptor. He was formed in Rome, probably in the orbit of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, with whom he collaborated on various occasions. As early as 1632 he was in the service of the Barberini family, under the protection of Cardinal Francesco, who will support him throughout his career. His activities for the Barberini were related to the restoration and care of the collection of antique sculptures. In 1635 he carved his masterpiece, the statue of St Martina, placed under the altar in the church Santi Luca e Martina in Rome. In 1636 he worked in the St Peter's basilica in the Vatican under the direction of Bernini where he created a relief of an angel with the shroud, probably based on a design by Bernini. In 1639 he devoted himself to the restoration of some ancient statues found in Ostia. In 1647-49 he returned to work with Bernini in St Peter's on decoration of the pillars of the central nave, with the portraits of the popes inserted in medallions supported by putti, and other stucco decorations. His important artistic activities in Rome, as well as the protection of the Barberini family, earned him the election as Prince of the prestigious National Academy of San Luca. //