The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew
c. 1600 San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome
About this artwork
This large canvas depicts the dramatic moment Saint Matthew is martyred at the altar, surrounded by his executioners and frightened onlookers. It was commissioned for the Contarelli Chapel in the church of San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome, forming part of a triptych depicting scenes from the life of Saint Matthew.
Did you know?
Caravaggio's "The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew" was initially rejected by the Contarelli Chapel patrons due to its raw realism and unconventional depiction, which some found too brutal. The artist had to create a second, modified version, which is the one we see today. It's said that he used real people from the streets of Rome as models, bringing an unprecedented sense of immediacy and humanity to his religious scenes.
On your wall. Unlock the 4K download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew
Michelangelo da Caravaggio, c. 1600
