Karavagism 16th century
Giovanni Battista Caracciolo, known as Battistello Caracciolo, was an early Baroque Italian painter.
Caracciolo was a follower of Caravaggio, a style that became the foundation for his work. He painted paintings and frescoes with scenes on religious themes.
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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Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, an Italian painter, was a pivotal figure in the transition to Baroque art. Born in Milan or the town of Caravaggio in 1571, his work is renowned for its realistic depiction of human emotion, dramatic use of lighting, and less-than-idealized portrayal of subjects, which broke away from the Mannerist style prevalent at the time.
Caravaggio's life was as dramatic as his art. In 1592, he moved to Rome, where, despite initial hardships, his unique style caught the eye of Cardinal Francesco del Monte, leading to his first public commissions. His success, however, was marred by a tumultuous life filled with brawls and legal troubles. Notably, in 1606, he fled Rome after killing Ranuccio Tommasoni in a brawl, an act that led to a death sentence. He sought refuge in Naples, Malta, and Sicily, continuing to create influential works while attempting to secure a papal pardon.
His most significant contributions to art include introducing a style that combined naturalistic detail with dramatic lighting (chiaroscuro) and psychological realism. This approach had a profound impact on the evolution of Baroque painting. Some of his notable works include "Basket of Fruit," "The Calling of St. Matthew," "The Beheading of St. John the Baptist," and "Supper at Emmaus." These works are characterized by their innovative composition and the intense emotional state they convey.
Caravaggio's fame waned after his death in 1610 under mysterious circumstances while traveling from Naples to Rome. However, the 20th century saw a resurgence in interest in his work, acknowledging his significant influence on Western art.
For collectors and art experts, Caravaggio's works represent a pivotal moment in the history of art, where the transition from Renaissance ideals to Baroque realism is profoundly evident. His paintings can be seen in various museums and galleries, offering a glimpse into the dramatic and emotive potential of art.
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Theodoor Rombouts was a Flemish painter who is mainly known for his Caravaggesque genre scenes depicting lively dramatic gatherings as well as religiously-themed works. He is considered to be the primary and most original representative of Flemish Caravaggism. These Caravaggisti were part of an international movement of European artists who interpreted the work of Caravaggio and the followers of Caravaggio in a personal manner.
Carlo Saraceni was an Italian painter, renowned for his contributions to the Baroque art movement. Born in Venice around 1579, Saraceni spent a significant portion of his career in Rome, where he was deeply influenced by the works of Caravaggio and Elsheimer. His art is celebrated for its vivid naturalism and meticulous detail, reflecting the stylistic transitions of early 17th-century Italian painting.
Saraceni's ability to blend Venetian colorism with Roman naturalism allowed him to create works that resonated with patrons across Europe, securing commissions from prominent ecclesiastical and aristocratic figures. His paintings, such as "Judith and the Head of Holofernes" at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna and "Saint Sebastian" at the Picture Gallery of the Prague Castle, showcase his mastery in depicting biblical and mythological scenes with emotional depth and realism.
Notably, Saraceni's work "The Dormition of the Virgin" was commissioned to replace a rejected painting by Caravaggio, indicating his stature and recognition in the artistic community of Rome. This commission highlights the nuanced differences in interpretation and representation of religious themes that distinguished Saraceni's approach from Caravaggio's.
Throughout his career, Saraceni remained connected to the vibrant artistic scene in Rome, engaging with the broader European context through his international relations. His legacy is preserved in the numerous works held in galleries and museums worldwide, reflecting his enduring influence on the Baroque art movement.
For art collectors and experts, Saraceni's oeuvre represents a pivotal moment in the transition of artistic styles, offering a rich tapestry of themes and techniques that continue to inspire and captivate audiences.
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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.
