Busts of Scipione Borghese

The Busts of Scipione Borghese (1632) by Bernini are mostly famous for there being two. While finishing the first bust, a crack in the marble appeared straight across the forehead of the cardinal’s sculpture. Depending on who is telling the story, Bernini produced a second bust within three days (or up to 12 days) — any of which is still impressive. The two busts are displayed together in the Borghese Gallery and the cracked one is perhaps just a little more skilful and vivid. Between the two busts hang three rare Bernini paintings.