Ernest-Jean Sarrasine is a prodigiously talented young French sculptor studying in Italy. He possesses a violent temper and an intensely passionate nature, traits that have characterized him since childhood and often place him at odds with societal expectations. After escaping his father's anger and training under the master Bouchardon, he travels to Italy, where he dedicates himself to capturing absolute beauty through his art.

La Zambinella is a celebrated Italian opera singer known for performing lead soprano roles. Revered for possessing an exquisite voice and an aura of delicate beauty, the singer becomes the object of Sarrasine's intense infatuation. Offstage, La Zambinella remains reserved and timid, actively discouraging Sarrasine's aggressive romantic pursuit while hinting at a troubled personal history.

The unnamed narrator is a member of fashionable post-Napoleonic Parisian society. He is observant and philosophical, functioning as a participant in the social intrigues of the upper class. Hoping to woo Madame de Rochefide, he leverages his knowledge of local gossip and art history, offering to tell her a captivating story about a famous sculpture in exchange for a private audience in her rooms.

Madame de Rochefide is a beautiful marchioness in Parisian high society. She embodies the conventional traits of an upper-class lady of her era, displaying a capricious and easily frightened demeanor at social events. Her intense curiosity about the de Lanty family's secrets drives her to invite the narrator to her private chambers to hear his tale.

The Comtesse de Lanty is the charming, intelligent, and beautiful matriarch of the wealthy de Lanty family. She and her family moved to Paris a decade ago, and the unknown source of their immense wealth is a frequent subject of society gossip. She is a gracious host who outshines her politician husband at their lavish gatherings.

The Comte de Lanty is a wealthy politician who lives in a grand Parisian manor with his family. Unlike his vibrant wife, he is considered dull and unattractive by his peers, though his immense fortune commands their attendance at his gatherings.

Marianina is the adolescent daughter of the Comte and Comtesse de Lanty. She is exceptionally beautiful, taking after her mother, and possesses a remarkable singing talent that commands the attention of the household and its guests.

Filippo is the adolescent son of the de Lanty family. Like his sister, he inherits his mother's striking looks rather than his father's dull appearance, possessing the attractive qualities expected of a young gentleman of his station.

Bouchardon is a famous and established French sculptor. He recognizes Sarrasine's artistic genius and violently passionate temper, choosing to mentor the boy. He provides a secluded environment to help his apprentice refine his skills away from the provocations of the outside world.

Cardinal Cicognara is a powerful and wealthy figure in the Catholic Church in Italy. He acts as a high-level patron in the Italian arts scene, utilizing his wealth and guards to maintain control over his interests and those he sponsors.