Masterpiece Monday: Caravaggio’s Caparelli Chapel and the Calling of Saint Matthew
- Rick Bessey

- Jun 30
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 14

In the beautiful Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesci, just a block from Piazza Navona, is a chapel containing three Caravaggio masterpieces, the topic of each is St. Matthew: The Calling of St. Matthew, The Inspiration of St. Matthew, and The Martyrdom of St. Matthew.
As you stand in front of the chapel admiring the work, pay attention to how Caravaggio utilizes the light coming in from the window - it mirrors the light in the paintings.
Caravaggio was a unique painter, yet the influence of his Venetian origins are visible. He painted on canvas using real models, and his works are heavy in the contrast between light and dark.
If you are traveling in Rome you will surely come into the vicinity of this work. Take the time to step in and admire these masterpieces in the Contarelli Chapel.
Are you interested in seeing this?
Yes!
If there is time.
It doesn't really call to me.
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