Italian artist Caravaggio, known for his unique style and quick rise to fame in Rome, is the focus of a major exhibition at Palazzo Barberini. Running until July 6, this showcase features 24 paintings from various museums and private collections, making it one of the most ambitious displays of his work due to the limited number of known Caravaggio paintings.

The exhibition includes a recently authenticated piece, Ecce Homo, described as a significant find in art history. Visitors can also view a portrait of Maffeo Barberini, authenticated in the 1960s and previously hidden in a private collection.

Caravaggio's unconventional approach to painting, using strong contrasts of light and dark, challenged traditional styles and brought a sense of realism to his works. The exhibition highlights his unique technique and the humanity depicted in his canvases.

One of the standout pieces in the show is a trio of large religious paintings featuring the same model, Fillide Melandroni. Caravaggio's use of chiaroscuro, or strong contrasts of light and dark, adds a theatrical element to his works, drawing viewers into the scenes.

Caravaggio's fast-paced painting style, along with his choice of models from everyday life, set him apart from his contemporaries. His ability to capture complex emotions and intense moments in his paintings continues to resonate with audiences today.

Despite his tumultuous life and untimely death, Caravaggio's influence on art endured through the centuries, inspiring generations of painters. The exhibition at Palazzo Barberini offers a glimpse into the world of this iconic artist and his lasting legacy.