Caravaggio

Caravaggio

c. 1571-1610

Late Renaissance

Image Source: The National Gallery
Information Source: Britannica

The Calling of Saint Matthew

The Calling of Saint Matthew


Year:

c. 1599

Medium:

Oil on Canvas Painting

Location:

San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome, Italy


"The Calling of Saint Matthew" by Caravaggio completely ignores any significant linear perspective as it has no depth nor need for spatial awareness. It reflects the humanist aspect in the realistic portrayal of Jesus Christ, Matthew, and others, capturing the emotional depth of the scene. Jesus enters the room and points at Matthew, who is counting money at a table with other men. This scene represents the moment Jesus calls Matthew to follow him, a pivotal event marking Matthew's spiritual transformation. Caravaggio's use of dramatic lighting and intense realism emphasizes human experience and emotions, aligning with humanist ideals. The focus is more on capturing the moment of Matthew's spiritual awakening and the human interactions, rather than on the technical aspects of linear perspective.

Image Source: Wikipedia
Information Source: Class Notes, Smarthistory