This week we are presenting you with Part 2 of an Art History video lecture series on Naples by Tom Richards. This installment focuses on the concept of mercy through a deep analysis of Caravaggio’s Sette opere di misericordia or Seven Acts of Mercy.

Seven Acts of Mercy can be viewed at the Pio Monte della Misericordia in Naples and this particular painting was Caravaggio’s first major commission in the city. Tom’s investigation of the painting guides us through its historical context, various components of the painting including the symbolism of the numerous figures and their placement in the overall composition, as well as how the concept of mercy is depicted in other works such as Madonna della misericordia by Piero della Francesca and Caravaggio’s Calling of St Matthew.

Additionally, in Naples, Love and Mercy Pt. 2 we dive into the storied life of Caravaggio and how the city of Naples, at the time the second largest city in Europe after Paris, influenced the artist and his work.