New Caravaggio Works Hits Chicago Art Institute
From now through December 31 locals and tourists can flock to the Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) to enjoy the works of Caravaggio and his followers. His art will is being displayed under a new collection titled “Among Friends and Rivals.” A name known around the art world amongst those of Rembrandt and Monet, the 16th-century painter has two rarely shown paintings make an appearance in Chicago. Also, this is the newest exhibit after the long-going Van Gogh display that has garnered a lot of recognition.
Though the showing isn’t very large, the Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) is truly giving Caravaggio his dues while marketing the event. The renowned Italian painter only has around 50-80 surviving works around the globe. Known for his original and iconic art style. Caravaggio uses tenebrism, a painting style that uses shadow and darkness to create depth. As opposed to chiaroscuro, which uses light and shadow.
The Works
The new exhibit will show the following works, “The Cardsharps” (ca.1595), which are on loan from the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.
“The Cardsharps” painting depicts a young, naïve aristocrat being duped in a game of cards. The two other subjects in the painting are working together to con a nobleman in a game of cards. One hiding cards in his waist and the other throwing up signals. The painting exemplifies the real-life events Caravaggio would likely see during his tumultuous and seedy life.
Along with “The Cardsharps” painting, the “Martha and Mary Magdalene” (ca.1598) is another work of his that is to be shown at the museum. A painting that depicts the Christian scene of the conversion of Mary with her sister Martha. This work is on loan from the Detroit Institute of Arts.
His Influence
In addition, Caravaggio left an influence on other artists that they’ve been dubbed “Caravaggisti.” Furthermore, the artists whose artwork styles were inspired by Caravaggio’s will also be featured in the exhibit. Such as the likes of Jusepe de Ribera. Another wonderful artist whose use of tenebrism is also very apparent in his works. His works amongst others will be shown.
In sum, for the fall season, a trip to look at the Italian artist’s works and like creators is a great way to spend a day in Chicago!
Written by AriAnna Rathers
Sources:
Chicago Sun-Times– Art Institute of Chicago exhibit gives a rare, up-close glimpse of 2 Caravaggio works
Art Institute of Chicago– Among Friends and Rivals: Caravaggio in Rome
Michigan Avenue– Explore Caravaggio’s Dramatic Legacy At The Art Institute of Chicago
Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Andrew Milligan sumo Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Image Courtesy of Andrew Milligan sumo Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
