features that illustrate the dramatic effects that characterize the Italian Baroque. We will begin with Artemisia Gentileschi’s painting Judith and Maidservant with Head of Holofernes. We will then explore Francesco Borromini’s design for San Carlo alle Quattro. Then we will examine Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s sculpture David. Finally, we will discuss George Frederick Handel’s oratorio Messiah. Artemisia Gentileschi was a member of the Florentine Academy of Design and a follower of Caravaggio, a
San Andrea al Quirinale and San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, both very iconic and innovative structures but differing from each in many details, techniques, illusions etc. In 1638 Borromini received a commission to build a church and its monastery on a small and asymmetrical site
The two works that began Caravaggio’s artistic career were The Calling of Matthew (Oil on Canvas, 1599-1600, Contarelli Chapel) and the accompanying work, The Martyrdom of St Matthew (Oil on canvas, 1599-1600, San Luigi dei Francesi). While both of these works are significant to the progression of the Baroque period, I’m going to focus on The Calling of Matthew for my argument. The Calling of Matthew was painted for the Contarelli Chapel, which was part of the