Il Bacco

Caravaggio’s painting of Bacchus, also known as “The Wine God,” is a masterpiece of the Baroque period. The painting depicts Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, reclining on a bed and holding a glass of wine in his left hand, while a bowl of fruit rests in his lap.

The painting is notable for its dramatic use of light and shadow, a hallmark of Caravaggio’s style. The figure of Bacchus is bathed in a bright, warm light that accentuates his features and contrasts with the dark background. The use of chiaroscuro creates a strong sense of depth and realism, making it seem as if Bacchus is sitting right in front of the viewer.

Despite its beauty, the painting was controversial in its time. Bacchus’s androgynous appearance and sensual expression were seen as scandalous and morally dubious. However, the painting’s technical brilliance and its ability to capture the essence of Bacchus as the god of wine and revelry has made it a beloved work of art for centuries.

Today, the painting is housed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, where it continues to captivate viewers with its beauty and technical mastery.

With the co-operation of his son Riccardo.

Project Details

  • width 54 cm

  • height 54 cm