Artist: Caravaggio (Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio)
Year: 1599–1600
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 323 cm × 343 cm
Location: San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome
Context and Background
Located in the Contarelli Chapel, this painting is part of a series including "The Calling of Saint Matthew" and "The Inspiration of Saint Matthew."
Commissioned by Cardinal Francesco Maria Del Monte, it was the first of the series to be installed in the chapel in July 1600.
Subject Matter
Depicts the martyrdom of Saint Matthew, the Evangelist and author of the Gospel of Matthew.
Tradition states that Matthew was killed on the orders of the Ethiopian king while celebrating Mass, due to his rebuke of the king’s inappropriate desires.
Caravaggio had to adhere to the specifications laid down by Cardinal Contarelli regarding the depiction of the martyrdom scene.
Artistic Process
Caravaggio struggled with the large canvas size and the complexity of depicting many figures.
X-rays show two previous versions of the composition, with a movement towards simplification and reduction of figures.
The final version showcases Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro, emphasizing drama and the moment of the saint's murder.
A self-portrait of Caravaggio is included in the background.
Analysis and Impact
Marks a shift from Mannerism to Baroque, causing a sensation at the time.
Praised for its dramatic use of light and emotional depth.
The painting captures the moment Saint Matthew receives the palm of martyrdom from an angel, suggesting a divine handshake rather than a moment of terror.
Caravaggio's use of lighting complements the dark setting of the Contarelli Chapel.
Influences from Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian are evident in the composition.
Related Works and Influence
Influenced younger artists and asserted Caravaggio's position as a leading artist in Rome.
Representative of Italian Baroque ideals, focusing on dramatic, emotional moments in religious contexts.
Further Reading
Books by authors such as Francine Prose, John T. Spike, and Helen Langdon provide deeper insights into Caravaggio's work and life.
See Also
"Conversion on the Way to Damascus"
"List of paintings by Caravaggio"
External Resources
Wikimedia Commons and other publications for media related to Caravaggio's paintings.
Additional References
Articles and books listed in references provide further reading on Caravaggio's techniques and influence in art history.