A violent genius

Not long after leaving Milan for Rome, Caravaggio became known not only for his artistic talent, but also for his violent and provocative personality. He once had to flee to Naples after he killed a man in a brawl and was sentenced to death, and later became involved in another violent altercation which resulted in his face being disfigured. Caravaggio died in 1610 under mysterious circumstances.

A genius who invented new techniques and pioneered the use of certain colors, Caravaggio changed the rules of art, according to D'Arelli.

His paintings have been described as the manifestation of his observations of the physical and emotional state, and often feature dramatic lighting. They have also been credited for their deep influence on Baroque painting, a movement that began at the start of the 17th century in Rome. Baroque paintings are known for their use of contrast, movement, deep colors and sense of surprise to convey awe.

Paintings by 41 Baroque artists from the end of the 16th to the mid-17th century will also be on display at the Pudong museum.

Located in the former Villa Borghese Pinciana, and originally a private collection, the Borghese Gallery was started in the 17th century and became a public museum in 1902.

The exhibition in Shanghai has been designed by Aldo Cibic, who was also responsible for A World of Beauty — Masterpieces from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, a critically acclaimed exhibition held at the museum earlier this year.