Contarelli Chapel
The Contarelli Chapel, or Cappella Contarelli, is a significant art and historical site located within the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, Italy. This chapel is renowned for housing three masterful paintings by the illustrious Italian Baroque painter Caravaggio, which collectively depict scenes from the life of Saint Matthew.
Historical Background
The chapel was commissioned by Cardinal Matteo Contarelli, a member of the French community in Rome, who desired a fitting tribute to his namesake, Saint Matthew. Upon his death, the responsibility of fulfilling his vision fell to his executors. The execution of the artistic program was assigned to Caravaggio in 1599, under the influence of his patron, Cardinal Francesco Maria del Monte.
Caravaggio's Masterpieces
The chapel contains three significant works by Caravaggio, each illustrating a pivotal moment in the life of Saint Matthew. These are:
The Calling of Saint Matthew
The Calling of Saint Matthew is a dynamic representation of the moment Jesus Christ calls upon Matthew, a tax collector, to follow him. Completed between 1599 and 1600, this painting is noted for its dramatic use of chiaroscuro, a technique Caravaggio pioneered, which uses stark contrasts between light and dark to convey depth and volume.
The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew
The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew captures the violent and tumultuous moment of the apostle's martyrdom. This painting exemplifies Caravaggio's skill in depicting emotion and movement, bringing a dramatic and almost theatrical quality to the scene.
The Inspiration of Saint Matthew
The Inspiration of Saint Matthew, completed in 1602, portrays the evangelist being inspired by an angel while writing the Gospel. The original version of this painting, known as Saint Matthew and the Angel, was rejected by the patrons for its unconventional depiction of the saint, leading Caravaggio to create a second version that now hangs in the chapel.
Architectural Context
The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi serves as the national church of France in Rome. It is a testament to the French influence in the city and features several chapels dedicated to French saints, including Saint Louis IX of France. The Contarelli Chapel stands out for its artistic significance, primarily due to Caravaggio's contributions, which transformed the space into a pilgrimage site for admirers of Baroque art.