The Calling of Saint Matthew A Baroque Masterpiece Exemplifying Dramatic Light and Shadowplay

John Winthrop, the influential governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, once lamented that the New World lacked “men of genius.” While the artistic scene in 17th-century America was indeed nascent, with limited patronage and access to European training, there existed pockets of remarkable talent. One figure who emerged from this era was the enigmatic painter John Lathrop.

Although relatively unknown today, Lathrop’s surviving works offer a glimpse into the artistic aspirations of early American colonists. His “The Calling of Saint Matthew,” executed around 1670, stands out as a captivating example of Baroque sensibilities intertwined with nascent local themes.

Interpreting “The Calling of Saint Matthew”:

Lathrop’s depiction draws heavily from Caravaggio’s renowned painting of the same subject, echoing the Italian master’s use of dramatic lighting and dynamic composition. Matthew, seated at his counting table amidst a bustling tavern scene, is startled by the appearance of Christ. His figure, illuminated by a shaft of divine light, contrasts sharply with the shadowy figures surrounding him.

The apostle’s gesture - one hand reaching towards Christ, the other pointing hesitantly towards himself - conveys both surprise and uncertainty. He grapples with the profound decision before him: to abandon his worldly pursuits and embrace a life devoted to God. This internal conflict is palpable in Lathrop’s portrayal of Matthew’s furrowed brow and wide-eyed gaze.

• Light as Divine Revelation: Lathrop masterfully employs light as a symbol of divine intervention. The strong contrast between the illuminated Christ and the dimly lit figures surrounding him emphasizes the transformative power of faith. This technique, borrowed from Caravaggio, creates a sense of drama and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the heart of the scene.

• Compositional Dynamics: The diagonal lines created by Christ’s pointing finger and Matthew’s outstretched hand guide the eye through the composition, creating a sense of movement and tension. This dynamic arrangement reinforces the pivotal moment captured in the painting – the call to discipleship that irrevocably alters Matthew’s life.

• A Glimpse into Colonial Life: Lathrop’s “Calling” is not merely a religious narrative; it also offers a rare glimpse into the everyday life of 17th-century New England. The tavern setting, complete with tankards, coins, and weary patrons, suggests that even amidst religious fervor, the mundane realities of colonial existence persisted.

Lathrop’s Legacy:

While John Lathrop’s artistic career remains shrouded in mystery – with limited biographical information available – his “Calling of Saint Matthew” stands as a testament to the aspirations and challenges faced by early American artists. Working in a colony still struggling for its identity, Lathrop sought inspiration from European masters while incorporating local details into his work. His painting offers us not only a glimpse into the religious fervor of the era but also a window into the nascent artistic landscape of colonial America.

“The Calling” invites contemplation on the timeless themes of faith, doubt, and transformation. Its enduring power lies in Lathrop’s skillful blending of technique and narrative, leaving viewers to ponder the profound decision facing Matthew – a choice that echoes across centuries and continues to resonate with us today.

Beyond “The Calling”: Exploring Lathrop’s Other Works:

While “The Calling of Saint Matthew” is undoubtedly Lathrop’s most recognizable work, scholars have identified several other paintings attributed to him. These include portraits of prominent colonists, landscapes depicting the rugged New England terrain, and still lifes showcasing the bounty of the land. Despite their individual variations in subject matter, these works share common threads – a meticulous attention to detail, a mastery of light and shadow, and a discernible influence from European Baroque masters.

The scarcity of documentation surrounding Lathrop’s life leaves many questions unanswered: Did he receive formal training in Europe? How did he acquire the technical skills evident in his work? What were his motivations for choosing specific subjects, and what insights can these choices offer into the social and religious landscape of early America?

While further research is needed to unravel the full extent of Lathrop’s artistic journey, “The Calling of Saint Matthew” serves as a captivating entry point into the world of this enigmatic colonial artist. It reminds us that even in a nascent cultural context, artistry can flourish – reflecting both universal human experiences and the unique circumstances of its creation.