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Questions and Answers
What painting is referred to as 'The Stolen Caravaggio'?
In which year was 'Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence' stolen?
Which of the following reasons has been suggested for the painting's theft?
What notable characteristic of Caravaggio's style is evident in 'Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence'?
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What is the current situation regarding the stolen painting?
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What potential concern do art historians have regarding the recovery of the stolen painting?
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Where can visitors see the impact of the painting's theft?
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What is Caravaggio best known for in his paintings?
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Which of the following artists are considered followers of Caravaggio?
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What major event occurred in Caravaggio's life in 1606?
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How did Caravaggio reportedly die?
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What notable characteristic of Medusa is highlighted in Caravaggio's depiction?
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What common perception did ancient Greeks have regarding snakes, which differs from Christian views?
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What was a significant reason for Caravaggio's tumultuous life?
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In which artistic period did Caravaggio primarily work?
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Study Notes
Caravaggio Overview
- Full name: Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio.
- Lifespan: 1571-1610.
- Influential Baroque artist known for dramatic lighting and realism.
- Frequently depicted religious scenes, often controversial for their graphic violence and sexuality.
- Employed chiaroscuro (light and shadow) effectively; inspired followers known as Caravaggisti.
Personal Life and Struggles
- Caravaggio's life was tumultuous and marked by violence and legal troubles.
- Frequently arrested for street brawls, defamation, illegal weapons, and unpaid rent.
- Fled Rome in 1606 after killing a young man, avoiding execution.
- Moved through Naples, Malta, and Sicily, living a life on the run.
- Died under mysterious circumstances in 1610; may have suffered from lead poisoning linked to his painting materials.
Medusa Painting
- Medusa, a Gorgon from Greek mythology, symbolizing dual interpretations of snakes as both fertility and evil.
- Caravaggio's representation of Medusa is graphic—depicting her just after decapitation with lifelike intensity.
- Some art historians suggest that Medusa's face resembles Caravaggio's, possibly serving as a self-portrait.
The Stolen Caravaggio
- Refers to "Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence," a painting stolen in 1969 from the Oratory of San Lorenzo in Palermo.
- Considered one of the most significant art crimes; the painting remains missing despite multiple investigations.
- Created circa 1609, known for its dramatic and realistic portrayal of the nativity scene.
- Theories surrounding the theft include possible Mafia involvement and use as collateral in criminal activities.
- Concerns about potential irreversible damage to the painting if recovered are prevalent among art historians and restoration experts.
- The Oratory of San Lorenzo currently displays the blank space where the painting once hung.
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Description
This quiz explores the life and works of Caravaggio, a significant figure in the Baroque art movement. Known for his dramatic lighting and realism, Caravaggio's paintings often depicted religious themes, which stirred controversy in his time. Test your knowledge of his most famous pieces and contributions to art history.
