Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, commonly known as Caravaggio, was an Italian painter who left an indelible mark on the art world of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Born in 1571 in Milan, Italy, Caravaggio's life was filled with a combination of artistic brilliance and personal turmoil. He developed a unique style characterized by dramatic lighting, intense realism, and a willingness to portray subjects with gritty honesty. Caravaggio's innovative techniques and provocative subject matter challenged the conventions of his time, making him a polarizing figure among his contemporaries. His tumultuous life, marked by frequent altercations and legal troubles, often overshadowed his artistic achievements. Despite the controversies, Caravaggio's contributions to art were significant, and his influence can be seen in the works of countless later artists. He left behind a legacy of masterpieces, including "The Calling of Saint Matthew" and "The Conversion of Saint Paul," which continue to captivate audiences with their raw emotional power and technical brilliance. Caravaggio's life was cut short in 1610 when he died under mysterious circumstances at the age of 38, but his impact on the art world endures, solidifying his position as one of the greatest painters in history.