Beyond Caravaggio

One of the greatest and most well- known artists has come to Dublin for an excursion. Works by Italian Baroque painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio are currently being displayed at The National Gallery of Ireland in a compelling exhibition titled Beyond Caravaggio. Considering his fame for intense chiaroscuro and unparalleled realism, before even entering this exhibition I knew it was going to be a hit. There are over 40 works within the exhibition but only 4 by Caravaggio himself. It focuses instead on his influence throughout art history and those who adopted his incredible style, also known as the Caravaggisti. However, these 4 works by Caravaggio are some of his most famous pieces The Taking of Christ, 1602 which can be seen in the gallery all year round, Supper at Emmaus, 1601, Boy Bitten by a Lizard, 1593- 94 and Boy Peeling Fruit, 1592- 93. Before entering, I was disappointed at the price at €15 (€5 for students and €10 concession) purely because I knew that there were only 4 of his pieces included and because the National Gallery is always so accessible but when you see that they are these 4, it's completely understandable and worth every cent to see, arguably, some of his most famous works.

The Taking of Christ

Without a doubt Caravaggio is one of my favourite artists for the main reason that his paintings are just so striking. They are intense, powerful and overwhelming but in an incredible way. This exhibition is a way to see just how influential he was across various countries. One of those influenced by him was Orazio Gentileschi who in my opinion, apart from Caravaggio, stood out the most in this exhibition. His paintings here are large, dramatic and show the realism influenced by his counterpart. Apparently very close with the artist, Gentileschi certainly employed his style for a period of his artistic career. His David and Goliath is encapsulating and I was instantly drawn to it when I turned the corner into its' section. His daughter, Artemisia Gentileschi is also included in the exhibition and demonstrates the remarkable technique she acquired from her father and also from the master painter.

Orazio Gentileschi, David and Goliath, 1605- 07, included in 'Beyond Caravaggio'

One of my favourite things about Caravaggio is how he creates intimate little scenes that make us feel as if we are almost a part of them. Supper at Emmaus is one of these scenes. Home to the National Gallery in London, this scene depicts Christ and his disciples after Christ has been resurrected. The scene welcomes us in to this home where the food is barely touched and the people included are mid conversation, enlivening the realism that is already portrayed. It presents us with the "sublime interrupting daily routine", a common theme among Caravaggio paintings. The theme can be seen throughout the exhibition, brought to life by his followers.

Supper at Emmaus

This exhibition demonstrates how prominent the artist was to his followers as many artists never met Caravaggio nor worked alongside him, yet dedicated their works to adopt his style. Some paintings are distinct for how Caravaggesque they are and could be mistaken for an actual Caravaggio if glanced upon. I think the National Gallery have helped to create an incredible exhibition here with the National Gallery, London and the National Galleries of Scotland. It is one not to be missed.

Many of these works are on loan from private collection meaning that this truly is one of the only chances to see these masterpieces so run while you can. Booking is strongly advised due to its popularity and considering it has sold out almost every day since the opening of the exhibition, that advice is not an exaggeration. The exhibition is showing until May 14th in the Beit Wing, level one of the gallery.

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