Born in Milan's San Marcellino district, Castiglione studied painting in Italy with Carlo Cornara of the renowned Bottega degli Stampatori painting studio. In 1709, he became a Jesuit and in 1715, he went to China as a 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 sensibility with Chinese technique and themes.

While in China, Castiglione took the name Lang Shining (郎世寧). In addition to his demonstrable skill as a painter, he was also in charge of designing the Western - Style Palaces in the imperial gardens of the Old Summer Palace. This prominent Jesuit artist, architect, and missionary died in Beijing.

In 2005, Castiglione became the subject of the television series Palace Artist in China, played by famed Canadian - Chinese actor Dashan (Mark Rowswell), and broadcast by China Central Television (CCTV).