Austrian sculptor, part of a family of sculptors, the youngest son of Thomas Schwanthaler. In his work Johann sought to continue his father's artistic legacy. Taking over his father's workshop in 1710, he found himself overwhelmed by debt, which his ensuing marriage did nothing to reduce. Under huge pressure to economize, Schwanthaler slowly worked his way up and eventually earned an outstanding artistic reputation.He left an extensive body of work. He gradually adapted to the style of the time, producing more lyrical, introverted pieces than his father had done. //