“The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew,” created by Caravaggio between 1599 and 1600, is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Baroque and Tenebrism art movements. This religious painting, with dimensions of 323 x 343 cm, is housed in the San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, Italy.
The artwork vividly depicts the dramatic and chaotic scene of Saint Matthew’s martyrdom. Caravaggio’s masterful use of chiaroscuro and tenebrism is evident in the striking contrast between light and shadow, which heightens the emotional intensity of the moment. The central figure of Saint Matthew lies on the ground, reaching out as he faces his impending death. Surrounding him are various figures in different states of shock, fear, and action, adding to the dynamic and tumultuous atmosphere. An angel descends from the heavens, symbolizing divine presence amidst the human tragedy. Caravaggio’s attention to detail and his ability to capture raw human emotion make this work a quintessential example of Baroque art.
