Caravaggio, Michelangelo Merisi

Explore giclée prints of paintings by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, whose dramatic contrasts of light and shadow bring figures and gestures into close focus. This collection includes biblical scenes, youthful musicians, mythology and still life. Our guide to giclée prints explains the printing process.

Explore Caravaggio by subject

• Biblical encounters: The Calling of Saint Matthew, The Taking of Christ, The Denial of Saint Peter.
• Passion and martyrdom: Ecce Homo (attributed to Caravaggio), Salome with the Head of John the Baptist, The Crucifixion Of Saint Andrew 1606–7. Oil On Canvas.
• Music: The Musicians and The Lute Player.
• Mythology and still life: Narcissus and Basket of Fruit (canestra_di_frutta).

Explore biblical scenes and devotional subjects by other artists in our Religious Art & Prints collection.

About Caravaggio

Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (1571-1610) was an Italian painter known for his dramatic use of light and shadow, as well as his depictions of religious and mythological scenes. He was one of the most influential artists of his time and is credited with the development of the Baroque style of painting.

Caravaggio’s work is characterized by his use of chiaroscuro, a technique that creates a strong contrast between light and dark areas of a painting. He often depicted scenes from the Bible and mythology, but his works were known for their realistic and sometimes gritty depictions of human figures. His paintings were controversial at the time, as they often depicted religious figures in a naturalistic way, without the idealized beauty and perfection that was typical of Renaissance art.

Despite his success as an artist, Caravaggio led a tumultuous life that was marked by violence and scandal. He was known for his quick temper and was involved in numerous altercations throughout his life, including a fatal brawl that led to his exile from Rome. Despite these challenges, Caravaggio’s legacy as an artist remains secure, and his work continues to be celebrated for its boldness and emotional power.