Valentim da Fonseca e Silva

Valentim da Fonseca e Silva (c. 1745 – March 2, 1813), better known as Mestre Valentim, was a Brazilian sculptor, architect and urban planner, recognized for his contribution to 18th century Rio de Janeiro's public spaces and civic architecture. His work, particularly in sculpture, fountains, and cast-iron ornamentation, played a key role in shaping Rio's urban landscape during the period when the city was elevated to the status of the capital of the Portuguese Viceroyalty.  His sculptures were the first to contain elements of tropical flora and fauna. Like Antonio Francisco Lisboa, also known as Aleijadinho, he is one of the most famous artists of colonial Brazil and was of mixed race. Mestre Valentim recounts details of his life in his testament.