Caravaggio (1573-1610). Probably the most revolutionary artist of his time, the Italian painter Caravaggio abandoned the rules that had guided a century of artists before him. ... He was born Michelangelo Merisi on Sept. 28, 1573, in Caravaggio, Italy. ... At some time between 1588 and 1592, Caravaggio went to Rome and worked as an assistant to painters of lesser skill. ... 1602 (110 Kb); Oil on canvas, 9' 8 1/2" x 6' 2 1/2"; Contarelli Chapel, Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome . ...