The Calling of Saint Matthew-Caravaggio

With The Calling of Saint Matthew, Caravaggio uses extreme realism to portray an event that in many ways is very surreal. Through realism to an extensive degree the painting becomes more believable and therefore has a deeper affect on the viewer. Caravaggio’s use of light is what propels this from a beautiful painting to a masterpiece. The light appears incredibly realistic and natural with a single source not shown directly upon the subjects but appearing from an unseen side window. The shadows it leaves on the wall add to the overall composition of the painting by breaking it up into parts while also directing your eye toward Saint Matthew. What is even more stunning is that the light not only adds to the painting in a visual sense but also represents the godly act of the calling of Saint Matthew. It is amazing that Caravaggio can represent something that seems so distant and incredible with the use of light that we see throughout the day that seems very commonplace and natural.

The piece is natural in almost every way. Even the facial expressions are not overdone or glorified. The subjects look as though they are in wonder to a believable extent. However, having three separate subjects pointing at Saint Matthew may be slightly overdone. With even one subject pointing, most viewers, especially those who know the story of Saint Matthew, would understand which subject is him. Despite the painting’s obviousness it still remains a powerful image of a sacred event.