An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The MusiciansCaravaggio (Michelangelo Merisi)
Italian, Milan or Caravaggio 1571–1610 Porto Ercole
1597
36 1/4 x 46 5/8 in. (92.1 x 118.4 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Rogers Fund, 1952
In "The Musicians," Caravaggio captures a moment of youthful interaction and artistic expression. The painting features four young musicians, each immersed in their own world, yet connected by music. In the foreground, a boy with soft features holds a lute, his gaze direct and engaging, inviting the viewer into the scene.
The rich textures of the fabrics, highlighted by Caravaggio’s masterful use of light and shadow, create a sense of depth and realism. The reds and whites of their clothing contrast beautifully, while the subtle play of light accentuates the youthfulness of the figures. The shadows hint at an intimate setting, suggesting that these musicians are absorbed in not just playing but experiencing music together.
At the same time, the other musicians, one with a violin and another looking on, add layers to this composition. Their expressions are thoughtful, pausing in reflection or preparation, showcasing the contemplative nature of artistry. This interaction brings a quiet harmony to the piece, a moment where music becomes a bridge between the individuals.
Caravaggio's style pulls the viewer closer, almost as if they are eavesdropping on a secret moment of creativity. The vineyard in the background suggests abundance, linking the joy of music with the gifts of nature. Overall, this artwork invites us to ponder the beauty of collaboration and the introspective journey of creation.
About the artist
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. The Museum lives in two iconic sites in New York City—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. Millions of people also take part in The Met experience online.Since its founding in 1870, The Met has always aspired to be more than a treasury of rare and beautiful objects. Every day, art comes alive in the Museum's galleries and through its exhibitions and events, revealing new ideas and unexpected connections across time and across cultures.The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from The Met's Open Access dataset under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY, USA 10028
The best place to view The Metropolitan Museum of Art‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.