The painting, titled “The Taking of Christ (Second Version),” was discovered behind old furniture and layers of dust — completely untouched for centuries.
In a story that sounds straight out of a movie, an unknown painting found in an attic near Naples has been officially authenticated as a long-lost work by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, one of the greatest masters of the Baroque era.
The Discovery
The dramatic find was made by an elderly woman cleaning her late relative’s home.
When she noticed a dimly lit, striking scene of soldiers and candlelight, she contacted local authorities, who brought in art historians from the University of Rome.
After six months of testing, restoration, and pigment analysis, experts concluded:
“There is no doubt — this is an authentic Caravaggio.”
Infrared scans revealed brushwork identical to that of his “Judith Beheading Holofernes,” and even microscopic traces of lead white pigment unique to his Roman period (circa 1602–1606).
Why It Matters
This discovery is one of the most important art finds of the 21st century.
The painting could be worth over $150 million, according to Sotheby’s early valuation.
It offers new insight into Caravaggio’s obsession with light, shadow, and divine tension — the eternal struggle between sin and salvation.
The Italian government has already declared the piece a national treasure, meaning it cannot be sold or exported.
The painting could be worth over $150 million, according to Sotheby’s early valuation.
It offers new insight into Caravaggio’s obsession with light, shadow, and divine tension — the eternal struggle between sin and salvation.
The Italian government has already declared the piece a national treasure, meaning it cannot be sold or exported.
What Happens Next
The work will undergo a full restoration and then be exhibited at Museo di Capodimonte in Naples, where it will debut under the title “Caravaggio: The Hidden Light.”
Scholars hope this second version of The Taking of Christ will rewrite chapters of European art history, revealing new phases of the artist’s evolution.
Scholars hope this second version of The Taking of Christ will rewrite chapters of European art history, revealing new phases of the artist’s evolution.
What ArtExpoWorld Thinks
At ArtExpoWorld, we believe this discovery is a reminder of how art never truly disappears — it waits to be rediscovered.
Caravaggio’s genius lies not only in his technique but in his timeless ability to speak to the darkness and beauty within us all.
In a world obsessed with digital trends, this find reconnects us to the human hand, faith, and mystery behind every brushstroke.
Caravaggio’s genius lies not only in his technique but in his timeless ability to speak to the darkness and beauty within us all.
In a world obsessed with digital trends, this find reconnects us to the human hand, faith, and mystery behind every brushstroke.