Doubt and Conversion / The Magnificent Age: Art, Life and Baroque

When Martin Luther published his 95 theses in 1517, it was not only a challenge to the perceived corruption of the Catholic Church, it was an act which prompted the transformation of the religious, socio-political, and artistic landscape of Europe. One of the most dynamic styles to emerge in the wake of the Counter-Reformation, the Baroque lasted a century and manifested differently in Italy, Spain, and France, where it produced the most extraordinary artists and architects including Caravaggio, Bernini, Velasquez, Poussin, and Borromini.

Themes of doubt and conversion pervaded Baroque art. Caravaggio explored them in works such as the ‘Calling of Matthew’ in the Contarelli Chapel; the ‘Conversion of Saul’ in the Cerasi Chapel and ‘Doubting Thomas.’ Bernini also created powerful images including his St. Longinus in St. Peter’s.