The Calling of St. Matthew

Definition

The Calling of St. Matthew is a significant Baroque painting by Caravaggio, completed around 1599-1600, that depicts the biblical moment when Jesus calls Matthew to follow him as one of his apostles. This work is noted for its dramatic use of chiaroscuro, which enhances the emotional intensity and realism of the scene, showcasing the transition from Mannerism to Baroque aesthetics. The painting emphasizes the themes of divine intervention and personal transformation, key features of the Baroque period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Caravaggio's painting employs a stark contrast between light and shadow, drawing the viewer's attention directly to Matthew and highlighting his initial surprise at being called by Jesus.
2. The composition of the painting features a gathering of figures in a dimly lit tavern, which creates an intimate atmosphere, making the divine moment feel accessible and personal.
3. This artwork is often seen as a pivotal example of Baroque art, as it moves away from the idealism of Mannerism toward a more realistic portrayal of human emotion and physicality.
4. The Calling of St. Matthew was commissioned for the Contarelli Chapel in San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, which underscores its importance within the Catholic Church's efforts during the Counter-Reformation.
5. Matthew is depicted in contemporary clothing rather than traditional biblical garb, linking the biblical narrative to the viewer's own time and making the call to faith feel relevant.

Review Questions

• How does Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro in The Calling of St. Matthew enhance the emotional impact of the painting?
  • Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro in The Calling of St. Matthew creates a powerful visual contrast that highlights the moment of divine revelation. The dramatic interplay between light and shadow directs attention toward Matthew, capturing his astonishment as Jesus calls him. This technique intensifies the emotional weight of the scene, making viewers feel a connection to both Matthew’s surprise and the significance of being chosen for a transformative journey.
• In what ways does The Calling of St. Matthew reflect the themes and goals of the Counter-Reformation in its artistic approach?
  • The Calling of St. Matthew reflects Counter-Reformation themes by emphasizing personal faith and divine intervention through relatable human experiences. By depicting a contemporary setting and using realistic figures, Caravaggio aligns religious narratives with the viewers’ lives, encouraging them to connect with their faith. This approach was part of the broader effort by the Catholic Church to inspire devotion and reaffirm its authority through art that resonated emotionally with audiences.
• Evaluate how The Calling of St. Matthew represents a shift from Mannerism to Baroque art and its significance in art history.
  • The Calling of St. Matthew exemplifies a critical transition from Mannerism's artificiality to Baroque's focus on realism and emotional depth. While Mannerism often featured elongated forms and complex compositions, Caravaggio’s work emphasizes naturalism and immediate emotional response through lifelike figures and dramatic lighting. This shift not only marked a change in artistic technique but also influenced subsequent generations of artists, establishing Baroque as a dominant style characterized by its emphasis on realism, action, and psychological intensity.

Related terms

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

Naturalism: An artistic style that aims to represent subjects as they appear in nature, emphasizing realism and attention to detail.

Counter-Reformation: The Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation, aiming to reform its practices and reaffirm its authority through art and other means.