The life and times of...

Arrogant, rebellious and a murderer, Caravaggio had a short and tempestuous life which matched the drama of his works. Characterised by their almost theatrical lighting, Caravaggio's paintings were controversial, popular, and hugely influential on succeeding generations of painters all over Europe.

29 September is Caravaggio's birthday. To mark this date, Maurizio Patti will guide a tour of the Gallery's three Caravaggio paintings which trace the early, middle, and later parts of his life as an artist.

Maurizio Patti, originally from Cortona, Italy, is an expert guide and tutor. Patti has three degrees ranging from Languages and Visual Arts (Siena, Italy) to Philosophy and Theology, (University of Louvain, Belgium, London campus). Before moving to London in 1990, Patti worked as a teacher, interpreter and guide in Italy. Upon his arrival in London, Patti furthered his knowledge of visual arts through courses at the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tate Gallery and City Lit. Patti is now an art expert and lecturer for Tate Galleries and the Institute of Tourist Guiding (History of Art). Patti presents guides in English, Italian, French and Spanish.