Caravaggio was an Italian painter and one of the most influential artists of the Baroque period He is widely considered one of the most important painters of the Baroque period and a leading figure of the Italian Renaissance. His real name was Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, and his paintings typically feature dramatic lighting, intense emotion, and unusual and sometimes violent subject matter.
Caravaggio's innovative approach to painting inspired many other artists, and his influence can be seen in the works of Rubens, Rembrandt, and even Picasso. Caravaggio was a revolutionary in painting technique, and his style of painting was influential across the board. He allowed for a more realistic interpretation of biblical scenes, royal portraiture, and everyday life.
Five of the most remarkable works of art by Caravaggio are:
1. The Calling of Saint Matthew (1599-1600). This painting as located in the Contarelli Chapel in the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome. It depicts the moment when Saint Matthew was called by Jesus to become an apostle. Caravaggio's use of dramatic lighting and intense emotion in this painting set a new standard in the Baroque period.
2. The Conversion of Saint Paul (1601). This painting, located in the Cerasi Chapel of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome, depicts the moment in Christian history when Saint Paul was converted by an angel to follow the teachings of Christianity. Caravaggio's signature style of intense emotion and vivid colors are on full display in this painting.
3. The Crucifixion of Saint Peter (1601). This painting, located in the Cerasi Chapel of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome, depicts the moment when Saint Peter was crucified upside down. It is an incredibly dramatic painting with a vivid display of emotion and intensity.
4. The Entombment of Christ (1603-1604). This painting, located in the Vatican Pinacoteca, depicts the moment in Christian history when Christ's body is laid to rest. Caravaggio's use of striking light and vivid colors captures the sorrow and tragedy of the moment.
5. The Death of the Virgin (1606). This painting, located in the Louvre in Paris,depicts the death of the Virgin Mary. Caravaggio's use of intense light in the painting symbolizes the passing of the Virgin Mary into the afterlife.
Caravaggio's contribution to the art world was immense and much of his influence still exists today. His artwork was revolutionary in its use of light and emotion and he was a major influence on other painters of the time. His work continues to inspire generations of artists and he remains an important figure in art history.