25 Pieces That Inspire Me (Calling of Saint Matthew)

Calling of Saint Matthew by Caravaggio; 1597-1601. Oil on canvas. Located in Contarelli Chapel in Rome, Italy

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• The Calling of Saint Matthew is a tribute to Baroque art.  Caravaggio had disdain for all forms of classical art.  Instead of idolizing the classics, he sought to naturalize religion and the classics, making them purely human drama.  His dramatic portrayal of un-idealized figures was clearly Baroque.  Although showing the true nature of humanity, Caravaggio's paintings were still theatrical in nature.  
• In the Calling of Saint Matthew he uses a stark contrast between light and dark to over dramatize the scene.  One ray of light coming from an unidentified source creates a religiously powerful effect on the painting. Drama is the essence of this painting and of all Caravaggio paintings.
• I chose this piece because it is a perfect example of Baroque art.  It exemplifies an element not characteristic of the Renaissance, but clearly Baroque.  The effect it has on viewers is also successful in portraying the religious image intended.