Michele Pace Del (Michelangelo di) Campidoglio Paintings

Michele Pace del Campidoglio, also known as Michelangelo di Campidoglio, was an Italian painter born in 1610 in Rome. His nickname, 'Campidoglio', is derived from the Roman hill Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill), on which he lived. Not much is known about his early life or training, but he is recognized for specializing in still-life paintings, a genre that gained significant popularity in the 17th century.

Campidoglio's work typically featured arrangements of fruit, flowers, and sometimes dead game, which he rendered with a rich, vibrant palette and a strong sense of naturalism. His compositions were often simple yet carefully constructed, with a focus on the texture and quality of the objects depicted. He was particularly noted for his skill in painting peaches, which became something of a trademark and were celebrated for their tactile quality and lifelike appearance.

While the details of his artistic training remain uncertain, Campidoglio's work suggests that he may have been influenced by the still-life painter Caravaggio, who revolutionized the genre with his dramatic use of chiaroscuro and realistic depiction of objects. Campidoglio adapted these techniques to his own style, which was less dramatic but equally focused on the play of light and shadow.

Despite the beauty and technical skill evident in his paintings, Campidoglio did not achieve a high level of fame during his lifetime. His works were, however, collected by connoisseurs and appreciated by fellow artists. Today, his paintings can be found in various art galleries and collections around the world, contributing to our understanding of Baroque still-life painting.

Michele Pace del Campidoglio died in 1670 in Rome. His legacy lives on through his still-life works, which continue to be studied and admired for their contribution to the development of the genre in Italian Baroque art.