Although a classical painter, Caravaggio had done something new at the time with the composition, subject, and lighting. First, he portrayed Jesus and Matthew as well as the other characters, in a very ordinary way, which enhances the importance of the situation. The high contrast lighting in particular is what strikes me, it selectively highlights Matthew, who stands out in an otherwise dark room. The lighting is artificial however, produced by Jesus' presence. The style is intriguing since the subject is a common religious painting, but the mundane depiction enhances the mysterious, subliminal quality.
No comments:
Post a Comment