The remarkable history of Caravaggio's painting The Taking of Christ.
Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio is one of the most scandalous figures in the history of art, known for his masterpieces and his notorious escapades.
The Taking of Christ (1602) is one of the most loved pieces in the National Gallery of Ireland due in part to its powerful storytelling. Watch our Curator of Spanish and Italian Art, Dr Aoife Brady, talk about the intriguing story behind the painting, then scroll down further to explore more about the people and circumstances that contribute to the fascinating story of this artwork.
We are grateful to the Jesuit Community, Leeson Street, for placing the painting on indefinite loan to the Gallery, acknowledging the generosity of Dr Marie Lea-Wilson, who had presented the picture to them.
PLEASE NOTE: this painting is currently on loan to Palazzo Barberini in Rome for their exhibition Caravaggio 2025.
How did a masterpiece by Caravaggio end up in a Dublin dining room?
Read about the painting's remarkable journey from Rome to Dublin.
The Taking of Christ by Caravaggio
Read about Caravaggio's new visual approach to the biblical story.
