Caravaggio is variously labeled a uniquely gifted artist and an arrogant; rebellious; and dangerously violent murderer. But for all his wild behavior; he was a profoundly religious man. Caravaggio; the first artist to bring realism to painting; is considered by many to be the greatest Baroque painter of all. The Old and New Testaments are brought vividly to light by Caravaggiorsquo;s talent. Many of his paintings depict the grace of God as a shaft of light pouring from above to annoint his subject. By keeping his backgrounds very dark; if not completely black; Caravaggio further spotlighted the figures in the foreground that told the story. Many modern art historians consider Caravaggio to have been mentally ill; and he was described even by his admirers as being uno cervello stravagantissimo; or an exceptionally odd man. Nevertheless; Caravaggio gained a significant reputation at an early age. His achievements did not protect him from a murder charge; however; and he fled first to Naples and then to Malta. Tragically; his life ended at the age of 38 on a Tuscan beach; just three days before receiving a pardon on this murder charge.
#1944903 in eBooks 2013-07-10 2013-07-10File Name: B00FMWE2PU
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Steve Ward gives the reader a ringside seat in the greatest show of allBy SEWExhaustively researched yet so very accessible. Steve Ward gives the reader a ringside seat in the greatest show of all. He is the ringmaster precisely directing our attention so we can see; know and feel how circus came down through the ages and remains a vital part of our culture.(Kevin OKeefe Director of Circus MinimusSteve Wards `Beneath the Big Top is a wonderful history of the circus world from the British viewpoint. For me; the best things a book can do are inform you; involve you and engage you. Steve has found a way to do all of these things in a book that is both full of interesting information and a great read. I didnt want to put it down. Thanks Steve!(Chuck Johnson President of the American Youth Circus Organisation)Steve Wards new book `Beneath the Big Top; A Social History of the Circus in Britain conveys the authors passion for circus and the detailed research he has undertaken. The quality of the writing; and the intriguing individuals involved in circus; results in a book that is a pleasure to read as well as an excellent source of information. A variety of excellent illustrations adds to the books appeal.(Charlie Holland Author of Strange Feats Clever Turns)Beneath the Big Top is a thorough review of the history of the Circus brought to life with contemporary anecdotes and illustrations. An entertaining and informative book.(Jim Riley Founder of Skylight Circus Arts) .....beautifully illustrated and superbly researched.... (Roger Lewis for the Daily Mail 2.1.2015)A welcome addition to the literature available on the subject. It also stands out for putting the circus performances in a wider social context.....(Tim Roberts National Centre for Circus Arts)0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I thoroughly enjoyed this bookBy Caroline HellerAs a former circus performer and now teacher and circus professional; I thoroughly enjoyed this book !! The Circus has such a rich history and Steve does an amazing job at not only chronicling it; but also telling entertaining and wonderful stories throughout. The photos are also amazing !! I recommend this book for both circus professionals and also for everyone else..it is a fabulous read for all !!Carrie Heller; Circus Arts Institute. Atlanta; Ga.