Born in Milan, Castiglione studied painting in Italy and went to China in 1715 as a Jesuit missionary. His skill as an artist was appreciated by the Emperor Qianlong and Castiglione spent many years painting various subjects. His style was a unique blend of European painting with Chinese subjects and themes.

Whilst in China Castiglione took the name Lang Shining. Apart from his beautiful paintings Castiglione also designed a summer palace for Qianlong. He died in Beijing.