The Calling of Saint Matthew

Definition

The Calling of Saint Matthew is a famous Baroque painting by Caravaggio, depicting the moment when Jesus Christ calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow him as a disciple. This artwork exemplifies the themes of the Counter-Reformation by emphasizing personal connection and divine intervention, while also showcasing Caravaggio's revolutionary use of naturalism and chiaroscuro that greatly influenced European painting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Painted between 1599 and 1600, The Calling of Saint Matthew is part of a series commissioned for the Contarelli Chapel in the church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome.
2. The painting highlights the use of tenebrism, where a stark contrast between light and shadow illuminates key figures, particularly Jesus and Matthew.
3. Caravaggio's portrayal of ordinary people in biblical settings was revolutionary, making spiritual moments relatable to contemporary audiences.
4. The figure of Matthew is depicted with surprise and uncertainty, emphasizing his human emotions in response to Jesus’s call, which was a departure from more idealized representations in previous art.
5. The Calling of Saint Matthew significantly impacted Baroque art, inspiring numerous artists across Europe to adopt similar techniques of realism and dramatic lighting.

Review Questions

• How does The Calling of Saint Matthew reflect the themes of the Counter-Reformation in its portrayal of biblical events?
  • The Calling of Saint Matthew aligns with the themes of the Counter-Reformation by emphasizing a personal and emotional connection to faith. Caravaggio presents this moment as an intimate encounter between Jesus and Matthew, inviting viewers to witness the divine call. This focus on realism and human emotion was intended to engage viewers' spirituality more directly, encouraging a renewed interest in Catholic teachings during this period of religious upheaval.
• In what ways did Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro in The Calling of Saint Matthew contribute to its impact on Baroque art?
  • Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro in The Calling of Saint Matthew creates a dramatic visual effect that draws attention to the central figures, enhancing the emotional intensity of the scene. This technique not only highlights the moment of revelation but also gives depth and dimension to the composition. As artists began to emulate Caravaggio's style, chiaroscuro became a defining characteristic of Baroque painting, influencing generations by enhancing narrative storytelling through visual means.
• Evaluate the influence of The Calling of Saint Matthew on later artists and movements within European painting.
  • The Calling of Saint Matthew set a precedent for realism and emotional depth that resonated throughout European painting for centuries. Artists such as Rembrandt and Velázquez adopted Caravaggio’s techniques, using light and shadow to enhance drama and psychological insight in their works. Furthermore, Caravaggism inspired a movement that emphasized everyday life as a subject worthy of artistic exploration, thus expanding the boundaries of what could be considered fine art. This shift played a crucial role in shaping modern artistic expressions in both religious and secular contexts.

Related terms

Chiaroscuro: A technique used in painting that employs strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume and three-dimensionality.

Counter-Reformation:

The period of Catholic revival initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation, focusing on reforming church practices and reinforcing Catholic doctrine, which greatly influenced art during this time.

Caravaggism: The artistic style derived from Caravaggio's techniques, characterized by dramatic lighting, realistic depictions of human figures, and an emphasis on everyday life.