The Calling of Saint Matthew

Definition

The Calling of Saint Matthew is a significant Baroque painting by Caravaggio, created around 1599-1600. This artwork depicts the moment when Jesus Christ calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow him, symbolizing the theme of divine grace and redemption. The painting is known for its dramatic use of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro, which enhances the emotional intensity of the scene and reflects key characteristics of Baroque art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Caravaggio's use of light in The Calling of Saint Matthew creates a divine illumination that highlights Matthew's moment of realization and transformation.
2. The figures in the painting are depicted with naturalism, reflecting real human emotions and interactions rather than idealized forms.
3. The setting of the painting is a dimly lit tavern, symbolizing the worldly environment from which Matthew is called to a higher purpose.
4. The composition directs the viewer's eye towards the point of interaction between Christ and Matthew, emphasizing the significance of this moment.
5. The Calling of Saint Matthew was commissioned for the Contarelli Chapel in San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, becoming one of the most celebrated works of Baroque art.

Review Questions

• How does Caravaggio's use of light in The Calling of Saint Matthew contribute to the overall impact of the painting?
  • Caravaggio employs chiaroscuro to create a stark contrast between light and dark in The Calling of Saint Matthew. This technique not only draws attention to Matthew as he is being called but also symbolizes the divine presence entering the scene. The light illuminates the moment of transformation for Matthew, making it a powerful representation of grace and revelation.
• Discuss the significance of the setting in The Calling of Saint Matthew and how it reflects Baroque themes.
  • The setting of The Calling of Saint Matthew takes place in a dark tavern, which serves to illustrate the contrast between worldly life and divine calling. This choice reflects Baroque themes of realism and moral complexity, emphasizing that even those living in sin are called to redemption. By placing such a significant moment in an everyday location, Caravaggio connects spiritual themes with ordinary life.
• Evaluate how The Calling of Saint Matthew exemplifies key characteristics of Baroque art and its emotional appeal to viewers.
  • The Calling of Saint Matthew exemplifies Baroque art through its dramatic use of chiaroscuro and tenebrism, creating tension and emotional depth. The intense expressions on the figures' faces convey a range of emotions from surprise to awe, engaging viewers on a personal level. This emotional appeal is central to Baroque art's goal of evoking feelings and prompting spiritual reflection, making it a timeless piece that resonates with audiences across generations.

Related terms

Chiaroscuro: A technique used in painting that contrasts light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth, often employed by Baroque artists like Caravaggio.

Tenebrism: An artistic style characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, creating a dramatic effect, which is a hallmark of Caravaggio's work.

Baroque Art:

A style of art that emerged in the late 16th century and is characterized by exaggerated motion, clear detail, and a strong emphasis on emotion and tension.