The exhibition features the Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini, which made its public exhibition debut recently, and Self-Portrait as Bacchus.
Tying in with the Catholic Jubilee year, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore unseen Caravaggio works.
According to Thomas Clement Salomon, Director of Palazzo Barberini, the exhibition stands out not just for the quantity but the quality of its pieces and the intentional showcasing of Caravaggio’s style.
“At the core of his art is his life – the people he loved, the men, the women, his companions,” Salomon said in an interview with Euronews. “Caravaggio could capture the most intimate aspects of the human soul with unparalleled emotional depth.”
Caravaggio, though recognized later than some peers, has become one of the world’s most studied artists. His style, characterized by dramatic light and shadow, engages both scholars and the public.
The exhibition’s success crosses borders, drawing international visitors.
“Within 20 days of opening, we’ve already sold 240,000 tickets,” said Salomon. “Caravaggio’s art feels strikingly modern – he painted life-sized figures using natural, dark, unadorned backdrops.”
Visitors echo Salomon’s enthusiasm for the work’s emotional impact and accessibility.
“It’s what I expected,” an Italian visitor noted. “Seeing Caravaggio’s works together is breathtaking.” An Australian fan valuing Caravaggio’s exceptional portrayal of deep emotions added, “His art is dramatic, intense – the figures are close, the use of light and dark is accessible.”
Despite sellout crowds, the visitors’ passion for Caravaggio endures, and the exhibition runs until 6 July with tickets for the next few weeks already sold out.