Martha and Mary Magdalene c. 1598

"Martha and Mary Magdalene" is a captivating 1598 painting by the Italian Baroque master Caravaggio, renowned for his dramatic use of light and shadow. This work depicts a scene from the Bible, where Mary, engrossed in prayer, is reproached by her sister Martha for neglecting household duties. Caravaggio's masterful use of chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts of light and dark, highlights the emotional tension between the two women, adding a sense of realism to the biblical narrative. The composition and the depiction of everyday life, including a simple bowl and a folded note, further contribute to the painting's captivating realism, characteristic of Caravaggio's style.