The Calling Of St. Matthew Depicts

The Calling of St. Matthew: A Deep Dive into Caravaggio's Masterpiece

Caravaggio's The Calling of St. Matthew is more than just a painting; it's a revolutionary moment frozen in time. Housed in the Contarelli Chapel of the church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, this masterpiece is a cornerstone of Baroque art, renowned for its dramatic use of light and shadow, its raw naturalism, and its profound theological implications. It's a painting that continues to captivate viewers centuries later, prompting endless interpretation and analysis. Examining the composition, the context of its creation, and the artist's unique style allows us to appreciate the depth and complexity of The Calling of St. Matthew.

This work depicts a pivotal scene from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow him and become an apostle. But Caravaggio doesn't portray the event in a grand, idealized manner, typical of Renaissance art. Instead, he grounds it in gritty reality, presenting a group of figures in a dimly lit room, their faces illuminated by a single, powerful beam of light. This juxtaposition of the mundane and the divine, the earthly and the spiritual, is what makes The Calling of St. Matthew so compelling and enduring. The dramatic chiaroscuro isn't just a stylistic choice; it's a visual metaphor for the transformative power of faith, piercing through the darkness of everyday life.

Introduction: A Revolutionary Depiction of Faith

Imagine stepping into a dimly lit room, where the air hangs heavy with unspoken intentions. A group of men are engrossed in counting money, their faces shadowed and focused. Suddenly, a beam of light pierces through the gloom, illuminating the scene and revealing the presence of two figures at the edge of the room. One, a bearded man, gestures towards one of the money counters, his expression both commanding and compassionate. This is not a scene of ethereal beauty or divine glory, but a gritty, almost theatrical tableau of human interaction. This is Caravaggio's The Calling of St. Matthew, a painting that redefined religious art and continues to resonate with viewers today.

Caravaggio, a master of the Baroque period, was known for his radical departure from the idealized forms of the Renaissance. He embraced naturalism, depicting his subjects with unflinching realism, warts and all. The Calling of St. Matthew exemplifies this approach, presenting a scene of conversion not as a lofty, abstract concept, but as a tangible, human event. By placing the biblical narrative in a contemporary setting, and by using dramatic lighting and relatable characters, Caravaggio made the story of St. Matthew accessible and emotionally resonant to a wider audience. This accessibility, coupled with the technical brilliance of his execution, secured The Calling of St. Matthew its place as a cornerstone of Western art.

The Genesis of a Masterpiece: Context and Commission

To fully understand The Calling of St. Matthew, it's crucial to consider the context in which it was created. Caravaggio received the commission to decorate the Contarelli Chapel in San Luigi dei Francesi in 1599. Cardinal Matthieu Contarelli, a Frenchman who had served as papal treasurer, had bequeathed funds for the chapel's decoration, dedicating it to his patron saint, Matthew. The commission initially went to Girolamo Muziano, but upon his death, Caravaggio was chosen to complete the work. He was tasked with painting three canvases depicting key events in the life of St. Matthew: The Calling of St. Matthew, The Martyrdom of St. Matthew, and The Inspiration of St. Matthew.

This commission was a significant opportunity for the young Caravaggio, who was still relatively unknown. Rome at the time was a hotbed of artistic innovation and competition, with artists vying for patronage from the church and wealthy families. The Contarelli Chapel commission provided Caravaggio with a prominent public platform to showcase his unique style and establish his reputation. While the other two paintings in the chapel are equally compelling, The Calling of St. Matthew stands out as a particularly innovative and impactful work, marking a turning point in Caravaggio's career and in the history of art. The commission allowed him to explore his signature style on a grand scale, solidifying his place as a leading figure in the emerging Baroque movement.

Dissecting the Composition: A Dance of Light and Shadow

The Calling of St. Matthew is a masterclass in composition, meticulously arranged to draw the viewer's eye and convey a powerful narrative. The scene unfolds in a cramped, dimly lit room, likely meant to represent a tavern or counting house. A group of men, dressed in contemporary clothing, are seated around a table, absorbed in counting money. On the right, Christ, accompanied by St. Peter, enters the room, his hand outstretched in a gesture of calling. The dramatic lighting, known as tenebrism, casts deep shadows across the scene, highlighting key figures and creating a sense of drama and mystery.

The light source in the painting is ambiguous, seeming to emanate from the upper right, outside the frame. This adds to the sense of divine intervention, suggesting that the light is not a natural phenomenon but a manifestation of God's presence. The light falls most intensely on the face of Matthew, who is caught in a moment of surprise and uncertainty. His gesture, mirroring Christ's outstretched hand, is open to interpretation: is he questioning, accepting, or merely pointing to another? The ambiguity of Matthew's reaction adds to the painting's psychological complexity, inviting viewers to contemplate their own response to the call of faith. The positioning of Christ and St. Peter at the edge of the group further emphasizes the intrusion of the divine into the mundane world, disrupting the routine of everyday life.

Characters and Interpretation: More Than Meets the Eye

The characters in The Calling of St. Matthew are not idealized figures, but rather ordinary people, portrayed with remarkable realism. Matthew and his companions are dressed in contemporary clothing, their faces etched with the marks of everyday life. This naturalistic portrayal makes them relatable to the viewer, blurring the lines between the biblical narrative and the present day. Christ, while possessing a certain serenity and authority, is also depicted as a human figure, his bare feet grounding him in the earthly realm.

The interpretation of Matthew's gesture has been the subject of much debate. Some scholars believe that he is pointing to himself, indicating his willingness to follow Christ. Others argue that he is pointing to another man at the table, as if to say, "Are you calling him?" This ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, reflecting the complexity of the conversion experience. Is Matthew readily accepting the call, or is he hesitant and unsure? The painting offers no easy answers, instead inviting viewers to consider their own understanding of faith and discipleship. The presence of St. Peter, a stalwart figure beside Christ, provides a sense of stability and reassurance, suggesting that the path to faith is not always easy, but it is ultimately supported by divine guidance.

Caravaggio's Revolutionary Style: Naturalism and Tenebrism

Caravaggio's artistic style was revolutionary for its time, breaking away from the idealized forms of the Renaissance and embracing a raw, unflinching naturalism. He painted directly from life, using ordinary people as models for his biblical figures. This gave his paintings a sense of immediacy and authenticity that was lacking in the more stylized works of his predecessors. He also employed tenebrism, a dramatic use of light and shadow, to create a sense of drama and emotional intensity.

The use of tenebrism in The Calling of St. Matthew is particularly striking. The deep shadows create a sense of mystery and suspense, while the bright light illuminates key figures and draws the viewer's eye to the focal points of the composition. This dramatic contrast between light and shadow not only enhances the visual impact of the painting but also serves as a metaphor for the spiritual transformation that is taking place. The light represents the divine grace that pierces through the darkness of sin and ignorance, illuminating the path to salvation. Caravaggio's naturalism and tenebrism were highly influential, inspiring a generation of artists to embrace a more realistic and emotionally charged style of painting.

Influence and Legacy: A Lasting Impact on Art History

The Calling of St. Matthew had a profound impact on the development of Baroque art and continues to influence artists today. Caravaggio's revolutionary style, with its emphasis on naturalism and tenebrism, paved the way for a new era of artistic expression. His influence can be seen in the works of countless artists, including Rembrandt, Rubens, and Velázquez.

The painting's dramatic composition and psychological depth also had a lasting impact on religious art. Caravaggio's portrayal of biblical figures as ordinary people made the stories of the Bible more accessible and relatable to a wider audience. His emphasis on the human drama of the conversion experience resonated with viewers, inspiring them to contemplate their own relationship with faith. The Calling of St. Matthew remains a powerful and moving work of art, a testament to the enduring power of Caravaggio's vision. Its influence extends beyond the realm of painting, inspiring writers, filmmakers, and musicians to explore themes of faith, doubt, and redemption.

Modern Interpretations and Contemporary Relevance

Even centuries after its creation, The Calling of St. Matthew continues to inspire modern interpretations and hold contemporary relevance. Art historians and theologians continue to debate the nuances of its composition, symbolism, and theological implications. Beyond academic circles, the painting resonates with individuals seeking meaning and purpose in their lives.

The themes of conversion, redemption, and the intrusion of the divine into the ordinary are timeless and universal. In a world often characterized by materialism and superficiality, The Calling of St. Matthew reminds us of the importance of seeking deeper meaning and purpose. The painting's portrayal of ordinary people called to extraordinary things is particularly relevant in a society that often celebrates celebrity and superficial success. It reminds us that true greatness lies not in wealth or fame, but in responding to the call of our higher selves. The painting's ambiguity and psychological complexity also reflect the uncertainties and challenges of modern life, inviting us to embrace doubt and questioning as part of the journey towards faith.

Tips & Expert Advice: Appreciating the Nuances

To truly appreciate The Calling of St. Matthew, it's essential to spend time studying the details and considering the various interpretations. Here are some tips to enhance your viewing experience:

• Immerse yourself in the context: Research Caravaggio's life and times, the Counter-Reformation, and the artistic climate of Rome in the late 16th century. Understanding the historical and cultural context will deepen your appreciation for the painting's significance.
• Focus on the light: Pay close attention to the use of tenebrism and how it shapes the scene and guides your eye. Consider the source of the light and its symbolic implications.
• Analyze the characters: Study the faces and gestures of each figure, considering their individual roles and motivations. Pay attention to the subtle nuances of their expressions.
• Explore different interpretations: Read scholarly articles and essays that offer different perspectives on the painting's meaning and symbolism. Be open to multiple interpretations and form your own informed opinion.
• Visit the Contarelli Chapel: If possible, visit the church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome to see the painting in its original setting. Experiencing the artwork firsthand will provide a deeper understanding of its impact and significance.
• Compare and contrast: Compare The Calling of St. Matthew with other works by Caravaggio and his contemporaries. This will help you appreciate the unique qualities of his style and his contributions to the history of art. Consider his other paintings in the Contarelli Chapel, like The Martyrdom of St. Matthew.

By taking the time to delve deeper into the details and considering different perspectives, you can unlock new layers of meaning and appreciation in The Calling of St. Matthew.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is tenebrism?

A: Tenebrism is a dramatic use of light and shadow in painting, characterized by deep shadows and stark contrasts with brightly illuminated areas. Caravaggio was a master of tenebrism, using it to create a sense of drama and emotional intensity.

Q: Why is Matthew pointing?

A: The exact meaning of Matthew's gesture is debated. Some believe he is pointing to himself, indicating his willingness to follow Christ. Others argue that he is pointing to another man at the table, as if to ask if that person is being called.

Q: What is the significance of the light?

A: The light in the painting is often interpreted as a symbol of divine grace, piercing through the darkness of sin and ignorance and illuminating the path to salvation.

Q: Why are the figures dressed in contemporary clothing?

A: Caravaggio's decision to depict the figures in contemporary clothing was a deliberate choice to make the biblical narrative more relatable to the viewer, blurring the lines between the past and the present.

Q: Where can I see The Calling of St. Matthew?

A: The Calling of St. Matthew is located in the Contarelli Chapel of the church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome.

Conclusion: A Timeless Call to Reflection

The Calling of St. Matthew is a masterpiece that transcends time, continuing to captivate and inspire viewers with its dramatic composition, raw naturalism, and profound theological implications. Caravaggio's revolutionary style, characterized by tenebrism and a realistic portrayal of everyday people, transformed the landscape of religious art and paved the way for the Baroque movement. The painting's enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with viewers on a deeply personal level, prompting them to contemplate their own response to the call of faith.

From the meticulous composition to the ambiguous gestures of the characters, every element of The Calling of St. Matthew invites interpretation and reflection. The painting serves as a reminder that faith is not a passive acceptance of dogma, but an active engagement with the world, a willingness to step out of the shadows and embrace the light. The dramatic chiaroscuro vividly captures the transformative power of accepting a calling, illuminating our potential even in the darkest corners of our lives.

What does The Calling of St. Matthew evoke in you? How do you interpret Matthew's gesture and his readiness to embrace the unknown?