The Calling of St. Matthew
"The Calling of St. Matthew" is Bernado Strozzi's depiction of how St. Matthew became one of Jesus Christ's disciples. It is set in a small wooden room. A light shines from through a window into the painting. Eight men are depicted three counting coins, and five standing. A table with a green tablecloth centers the painting. Placed on top of it are a large sack of coins, an inkwell with a feather pen, and a book with Hebrew writing on its cover. The table is surrounded closely by four men with another four at a farther distance. From the perspective given, Matthew sits in the center. He is dressed with a blanket draped over his shoulders, and under that are another two layers of clothing. He sits in a green chair, has a graying beard, and four coins are set in front of him. To Matthew's right stands a very well dressed man in red. He appears to be the youngest of the men, has no facial hair, and is leaning over the table reaching for some coins. Behind him stand two others. One is wearing a white hat, and has some facial hair. He is the only person in the painting besides Matthew who notices Christ. The other just stands and stares at the table. To Matthew's left stands an older man. He is balding
This work of art teaches a lot about the Bible. I believe the light signifies Matthew's transformation into a religious preacher, which is what the artist wanted to convey the most. He gave up his high position in society as a tax collector, and gave up his riches to become a disciple of Jesus. He stands with his mouth open, pointing at Matthew, and is uttering something to him. His assistants are kept in the dark, and continue on with their business counting money. The strongest light falls upon Matthew who appears awestruck because of Jesus' presence. Reflection The most remarkable aspect of this painting is its use of lighting. and is wearing a white shirt covered by a gray vest. The biblical passage is striking because Christ did not have to do anything to convince Matthew. He is identified by faint hint of a halo on the back of his head and is dressed the most simply of the eight men. Overall, the painting, along with the biblical passage enlightens people. There are two more men to the left of Matthew who are very faint and barely noticeable, and are possibly accompanying Jesus. He said two words and Matthew rose and pursued.
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