The Calling of Saint Matthew

Definition

The Calling of Saint Matthew is a significant Baroque painting created by Caravaggio around 1599-1600, depicting the moment when Jesus calls Matthew to follow him. This artwork is known for its dramatic use of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro, which enhances the emotional intensity of the scene. It captures a pivotal biblical moment, showcasing themes of divine intervention and the transformation of an ordinary tax collector into a follower of Christ.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Calling of Saint Matthew is located in the Contarelli Chapel of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, highlighting its significance within the context of Counter-Reformation art.
2. Caravaggio's portrayal of ordinary figures dressed in contemporary clothing helped to make biblical stories more relatable to 17th-century audiences.
3. The composition uses diagonal lines to direct the viewer's eye toward Matthew, emphasizing his moment of divine calling amidst a group of men absorbed in their work.
4. The figure of Christ is depicted in shadow, contrasting with the bright light illuminating Matthew, symbolizing the spiritual awakening that occurs when one accepts faith.
5. This painting is often noted for its emotional realism, capturing not only the awe and surprise on Matthew's face but also the indifference of those around him.

Review Questions

• How does Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro contribute to the overall impact of The Calling of Saint Matthew?
  • Caravaggio’s use of chiaroscuro in The Calling of Saint Matthew creates a striking contrast between light and dark, which heightens the emotional drama of the scene. The illumination on Matthew’s face signifies his moment of enlightenment as he is called by Christ, while shadows envelop the other figures, emphasizing their ignorance or indifference. This technique not only adds depth and dimension but also reinforces the theme of spiritual awakening.
• In what ways does The Calling of Saint Matthew reflect the values and aims of the Counter-Reformation?
  • The Calling of Saint Matthew reflects Counter-Reformation values by emphasizing personal conversion and divine grace. By depicting a humble tax collector being called by Jesus, Caravaggio underscores the idea that salvation is available to all, not just the elite. The emotional realism and relatable characters serve to inspire viewers to reflect on their own faith journeys, aligning with the Catholic Church's goals to reconnect with believers during this transformative period.
• Evaluate how Caravaggio's portrayal of everyday life in The Calling of Saint Matthew affects our understanding of Baroque art's role during its time.
  • Caravaggio’s portrayal of everyday life in The Calling of Saint Matthew exemplifies how Baroque art sought to engage viewers on a personal level, bridging sacred narratives with common experiences. This approach challenged traditional representations by making biblical scenes accessible through contemporary settings and relatable characters. By focusing on realism and emotional expression, Caravaggio not only transformed religious art but also influenced future artists, marking a significant shift in how art could serve both devotional and educational purposes during a time when society grappled with profound religious change.

Related terms

Chiaroscuro: An artistic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects and figures.

Tenebrism: A style of painting characterized by stark contrasts between light and dark, with darkness dominating the composition, often used to create a dramatic effect.

Counter-Reformation:

The period of Catholic resurgence initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation, focusing on reforming the Church and reasserting its authority, influencing many works of art during this time.