Tribute Money c. 1640

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Tribute Money c. 1640", originally brought to life by the talented Mattia Preti. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Mattia Preti and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

''The Tribute Money'' is an oil painting by the Italian Baroque artist Mattia Preti, created around 1640. This work exemplifies Preti's dramatic use of light and shadow, a technique known as tenebrism, which was popularized by Caravaggio and adopted by his followers. The painting depicts the biblical episode from the Gospel of Matthew (22:15-22), where the Pharisees attempt to trap Jesus with a question about the lawfulness of paying taxes to the Roman Emperor. Jesus responds by asking whose likeness is on the coin used for the tax, to which they reply "Caesar's." He then delivers the famous line, "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's," deftly sidestepping the trap and imparting a lesson on the separation of worldly and spiritual responsibilities.

In Preti's interpretation, the central figure of Christ is illuminated, drawing the viewer's focus, while the surrounding figures, including the Pharisees, are depicted with a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that enhances the narrative tension. The composition is characterized by strong diagonal lines and a sense of movement, as well as a keen attention to the psychological interaction between the characters.

Mattia Preti, also known as Il Cavalier Calabrese (The Knight of Calabria), was an Italian artist of the Baroque period who was known for his religious and historical scenes. Born in Taverna, Calabria, in 1613, he trained under his brother Gregorio Preti and later in Rome, where he was influenced by the works of Caravaggio and his followers. Preti's style evolved throughout his career, and he became known for his bold use of color and light, as well as his ability to convey complex narratives through his art.

''The Tribute Money'' is considered one of Preti's significant works, showcasing his mature style and his ability to convey a complex biblical story with emotional depth and artistic skill. The painting is not only a testament to Preti's mastery of Baroque painting techniques but also reflects the broader cultural and religious themes of the 17th century. It remains an important piece for the study of Baroque art and the interpretation of religious narratives in visual form.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.