Narcissus c. 1597-99

The reason I chose this piece is due to Caravaggio's ability to perfect what I consider one of the hardest concept's of art; symmetry. The top figure in itself is astounding with detail along the back of the shirt and different shades along the skin and sleeves to add to the depth. the fact that Caravaggio was able to give off the effect of water along the bottom half of the portrait, by dimming the colors and shapes of the top figure give it a strong effect of realism. Given only the 16th century, this method of painting was revolutionary for the time.