Italian, 1571–1610
Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio was an Italian Baroque painter known for his dramatic use of light and shadow, as well as his realistic depiction of human figures. He is considered one of the most influential artists of the Baroque period. Caravaggio was born on September 29, 1571, in Milan, Italy. He trained as a painter in the workshop of Simone Peterzano, where he developed his skills in chiaroscuro and naturalism. His early works were characterized by religious themes, often featuring common people as subjects. Caravaggio's career was marked by both acclaim and controversy, as his tumultuous life included frequent run-ins with the law. He died on July 18, 1610, under mysterious circumstances, leaving behind a legacy that would inspire generations of artists. Major works include 'The Calling of Saint Matthew,' 'Judith Beheading Holofernes,' and 'The Supper at Emmaus.' His innovative approach to composition and emotional intensity transformed the art of his time and laid the groundwork for future movements, including tenebrism and realism.
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