Allegory Karavagism


Angelo Caroselli was an Italian painter, born and active during the Baroque period, primarily in Rome. Known for his eclectic style, Caroselli's work was significantly influenced by Caravaggio, evident in the naturalism and chiaroscuro that marked his compositions. His subject matter often included colorful characters from contemporary Rome, scenes of witchcraft, musicians, and genre scenes reflective of the Caravaggisti, a group of artists who followed Caravaggio's stylistic approach. Caroselli's ability to blend allegories, religious works, and portraits with genre scenes showcased his search for originality and a unique narrative voice within the Baroque movement.
Angelo Caroselli's career was marked by his versatility as not only a painter but also an art restorer, copyist, and possibly a forger. This breadth of skills contributed to the diverse body of work he left behind, which ranged from scenes of everyday life to complex allegorical compositions. His works often depicted the lower echelons of society, including musicians, card players, and prostitutes, infused with a potent naturalism that brought these figures to life against the backdrop of 17th-century Rome.
Despite his adherence to Caravaggesque forms and themes, Angelo Caroselli's work also displayed 'archaicising' elements, which some art historians view as a conscious departure from the dominant Baroque style of his time. This aspect of his work, along with his skill in copying the works of ancient masters, highlights a deliberate exploration of and departure from the prevailing artistic norms, contributing to the unique place he occupies in Baroque art history.
Notably, Caroselli's influence extended beyond Italy, affecting the work of other Caravaggisti, including the Lucchese painter Pietro Paolini and the Dutch painter Dirck van Baburen. This cross-cultural impact underscores the broader significance of Caroselli's work within the Baroque period and its enduring influence on subsequent generations of artists.
His legacy includes several known works that are housed in prestigious institutions and collections worldwide, exemplifying the enduring appeal and historical importance of his artistic contributions. Among these, "The Plague at Ashdod (after Poussin)" stands out as a significant piece, reflecting his capability to engage with and reinterpret the works of his contemporaries and predecessors.
For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Caroselli's oeuvre offers a fascinating glimpse into the Baroque period's complexity, characterized by a blend of innovation, tradition, and a deep engagement with the human condition. His work remains a testament to the vibrancy and dynamism of 17th-century Italian art, inviting ongoing exploration and appreciation.
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Simon de Vos was a Flemish painter, graphic artist and art collector, a member of the Guild of St. Luke in Antwerp.
Simon de Vos specialized early in his career in cabinet and genre painting in the style of the Utrecht Caravagistes. His depictions of merry company and scenes from fables are well known. From about 1640 he increasingly painted large-scale religious, allegorical and historical scenes in the style of Peter Paul Rubens and Antoni van Dyck. Among his pupils was Jan van Kessel the Elder (1626-1679).
Simon de Vos was financially successful: by the end of his life he owned four estates in Antwerp and a collection of 290 paintings.


Bernardo Strozzi was an Italian Baroque painter and engraver. A canvas and fresco artist, his wide subject range included history, allegorical, genre and portrait paintings as well as still lifes. Born and initially mainly active in Genoa, he worked in Venice in the latter part of his career. His work exercised considerable influence on artistic developments in both cities. He is considered a principal founder of the Venetian Baroque style. His powerful art stands out by its rich and glowing colour and broad, energetic brushstrokes.


Claude Vignon was a French Baroque painter, illustrator, and etcher and a member of the Guild of Artists of Paris.
Vignon was a versatile artist and worked in many different genres: he painted portraits, domestic scenes, and religious works. During a trip to Italy he studied, among other things, the work of Caravaggio, but in his art he mixed a variety of techniques and styles, from Mannerism to Venetian, Dutch and German art. His works are brightly colored, the lighting is gorgeous, and the characters are expressive.
Claude Vignon was also one of the most distinguished engravers and illustrators in 17th-century France.