ARTH Notes - Sept 10

On monument sheet (smaller packet), p. 34 - Caravaggio's biographers

Mancini: began around 1617, may have been Caravaggio's doctor
Baglione: began around 1620
Bellori: most famous, began 1630s, knew a lot of people

Del Monte - Important Points

First major patron of Caravaggio, supplies his materials, gives him a place to stay and work
Venetian, represents Medici family, lives in Medici palace
As a collector:
Liked everyday subject matter, not necessarily religious stuff
More thematic content in works (not narrative)
Naturalism
Modest in scale, domestic

Contarelli Chapel
Contracted to paint lateral paintings in 1599
Life of Matthew: redemption for money handler important theme for commissioner Cointerel
Papal datery: discretionary account that was misused by Cointerel
Makes up for simony by financing facade, high altar area
Calling of St. Matthew: controversy around which character is Matthew
Hall - Calculated ambiguity, depends on whom you identify with, Tridentine theme meant for all viewers
Could be pointing, bearded figure or person counting money
Tilted composition to account for the painting being above viewers' heads
Highlights are anchors for composition
Narrative, role of form, content, ambiguity
Iconography: total work of art, form - context - content