Caravaggio (born Michelangelo Merisi) was born on September 29, 1571, in Milan. He was an Italian master of the early Baroque period.
Even as a teenager, he exhibited a profound interest in painting. In 1584, Michelangelo commenced his artistic training with the renowned painter Simone Peterzano in Milan. In 1592, the young artist moved to Rome, where he initially had to struggle with poverty and lack of recognition. The turning point in his career came when he finally caught the attention of a high-ranking patron. The support of Cardinal Francesco del Monte introduced Caravaggio to higher social circles, leading to a sudden increase in commissioned works.
Later, Caravaggio received his first major public commission for three historical paintings in the Contarelli Chapel in "San Luigi dei Francesi." The paintings impressed the public, making him known to a wider audience.
Christian subjects and handsome young boys were his favored themes. He depicted biblical scenes with a certain realism and naturalism. Caravaggio played with provocation of the church and the public, often eliciting hostile criticism. The characters were portrayed in harsh, directed light against a dark background, creating an effect that was both somber and breathtaking.
Caravaggio employed a distinctive painting technique—tenebristic (Italian Tenebroso: "dramatic lighting") chiaroscuro (Italian: "light-dark"). This technique was particularly popular during the late Renaissance and Baroque periods of painting. Bright and dark contrasts, as well as the interplay of light and shadow, served to express the characters. Such highlights enhanced the spatial effect and showcased an additional dimension. The world-renowned and most popular works include: "Narcissus" (1596/97), "Amor Victorious" (1602), "The Incredulity of Saint Thomas" (1603), "Saint Jerome" (1606).
Caravaggio was a highly controversial figure. Successful, famous, yet violent and prone to severe mood swings. His life was marked by a love for alcohol and gambling. He was often on the run due to his criminal behavior: in Naples, Malta, and Sicily.
There are many legends, myths, and stories about Caravaggio's life. However, they are more likely indications that the artist was a very extravagant personality. He led a very turbulent, sometimes criminal life and died in Porto Ercole at the age of only 38, on July 18, 1610.
© MYARTPRINTS.COM