Ferdinando Galli-Bibiena

Bibiena was born on 18 August 1657 at Bologna. In his decorations for the theatre and festivities, Bibiena replaced the central (vertical) axis with a diagonal axis, introducing an angular perspective. In the competition to select a design and architect for the construction of the Karlskirche, Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach was chosen over Bibiena. He returned to Bologna in 1716, where in 1717, he was elected as a member of the Clementine Academy. In 1731, Bibiena built the royal theatre of Mantua (which burned down 50 years later, in 1781). He produced several books, including: :* ''L'Architettura civile'' (1711; "Civil Architecture"), later reissued under various titles :* Varie opere di prospettiva (1703–1708; "Various Works of Perspective"). Past the age of 86, Bibiena died on 3 January 1743. == Family ==

The Galli-Bibiena family derives its name from the surname and birthplace of Giovanni Maria Galli (1625–1665), who was born at Bibbiena (Italy) outside Florence. Using the highly ornate style of late Baroque sculpture and architecture, the members of the Galli-Bibiena family produced a series of theatrical and other designs that are exceptional for their intricate splendour and spacious proportions achieved by detailed perspective. From about 1690 to 1787, eight Bibienas designed and painted for many of the courts of Europe with intricate settings for operas, weddings, and funerals. The Habsburgs were their most generous patrons. Among his followers or artists in his studio was Domenico Francia. ==See also==