of the Hockney-Falco theory … continuing on my last post about David Hockney’s book Secret Knowledge which argues that the Old Masters used optical aides to create their masterpieces, and even possibly, were the inventors of photography.
My obsessive research on the subject has led me to this headline: “Caravaggio used ‘photography’ to create dramatic masterpieces” .
In the article by Nick Squires, Florence-based art historian Roberta Lapucci claims that Caravaggio used a light sensitive “fixer“ on his canvases which was made from crushed fireflies – which is pretty cool – and then outlined the images with white lead and mercury for greater clarity.
Also note that Lapucci goes on to attribute Caravaggio’s notorious temper on his use of mercury, for “prolonged exposure to the chemical can affect the central nervous system”.
If Caravaggio gets to claim mercury, then I’m claiming Kool-Aid for my temporary insanity. I am a believer!
Caravaggio (Italian 1571-1610). Bacchus, 1595. Oil on canvas, 37 x 33 inches. Uffizi, Florence Italy.
