What material is used in the construction of Bernini's "Ecstasy of Saint Teresa" sculpture?

Bernini's "Ecstasy of Saint Teresa" is crafted from marble, which is a material renowned for its capacity to convey fine detail and a sense of ethereality, making it particularly well-suited for the dramatic qualities of Baroque sculpture. Marble allows for intricate carving, capturing textures and expressions that are crucial in conveying the emotional intensity present in this piece.

The choice of marble in this work enhances the luminosity and softness of forms, aligning perfectly with the spiritual and mystical experience depicted in the sculpture. This choice reflects Bernini’s mastery of the material, allowing him to create figures that seem to breathe and resonate with life. The contrast of light and shadow that marble offers also adds depth to the sculpture, emphasizing the ecstatic experience of Saint Teresa.

Other materials, such as wood, bronze, and clay, do not provide the same level of detail or the ethereal quality required for this specific work. Wood lacks the durability and finish that marble can achieve in sculptural representations. Bronze, while effective for some sculptures, has a different aesthetic and would convey a different emotional context. Clay, while useful for maquettes and preliminary sculptures, does not have the permanence or textural qualities that marble provides in a monumental piece such as this.