Photo of Angel, 17th century, Italian - Public domain dedication

Giuseppe Sanmartino was born in Naples and trained with his father, Francesco Sanmartino, who was also a sculptor. Giuseppe Sanmartino is best known for his marble sculpture 'The Veiled Christ' (Cristo Velato), which can be seen in the Chapel of Sansevero in Naples. The sculpture depicts the body of Jesus Christ covered in a transparent veil, revealing the intricate details of his muscular body and the wounds on his hands and feet. The veil is so skilfully carved that it appears to be a real piece of cloth draped over the body. Sanmartino's other notable works include "Purgatory Souls" (Anime del Purgatorio) and "Modesty" (Modestia). He was also commissioned to create sculptures for the Royal Palaces of Caserta and Naples. Sanmartino's style was characterised by his attention to detail and his ability to create lifelike figures. He was a master of chiaroscuro, the use of light and shadow to create depth and contrast in his sculptures. Giuseppe Sanmartino died in Naples in 1793, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest sculptors of the Rococo period.

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