David with the Head of Goliath 1610

David with the Head of Goliath was painted by Caravaggio in Rome, using oil on canvas. Caravaggio was known for his dramatic use of light and shadow, a technique he brought to bear on a wide range of subjects. Here, the contrast between the illuminated figures and the dark background heightens the emotional intensity of the scene. As always, materiality is key to understanding his paintings. Oil paint allowed Caravaggio to build up layers of texture, creating a sense of depth and realism. We can imagine the artist carefully mixing pigments and applying them to the canvas, using brushes to capture the subtle nuances of flesh and fabric. The visceral quality of the image is also important. Caravaggio was drawn to the darker aspects of human experience, and didn't shy away from depicting violence. The work has lost none of its power to shock. It is the artist's mastery of his materials, and willingness to confront difficult subjects, that makes this painting so compelling. By attending to the materiality and making of David with the Head of Goliath, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artist's vision.