Baldassare Peruzzi, March 7, 1481–January 6, 1536, was an Italian architect, painter, draughtsman, and designer born in Siena. He trained among goldsmiths and draftsmen, and his early work reflects the influence of the Sienese architect and painter Francesco di Giorgio Martini.

Peruzzi moved to Rome around 1503 and became known for his architectural and painted work, including the Villa Farnesina. In 1520 he was appointed architect of St Peter’s Basilica. His work combined the study of ancient Roman architecture with painting, perspective, and stage design.

After the Sack of Rome in 1527, Peruzzi returned to Siena and worked for the Republic of Siena through 1534. He later returned to Rome, where he died on January 6, 1536, and was buried in the Pantheon.