Martha and Mary Magdalene

Caravaggio's Martha and Mary Magdalene from around 1598 depicts the sisters of Lazarus at the moment when Martha reproaches the seated Mary for her apparent idleness in listening to Christ rather than helping with practical domestic work — and Mary's defense of her choice of the 'better part.' The subject provided Caravaggio with the opportunity to depict two women in intense psychological interaction, the domestic debate about the relative value of active and contemplative life rendered as a tense personal confrontation. The work was painted for his Genoese Massimo patron, demonstrating how his Roman reputation was already drawing collectors from beyond the city.

The painting demonstrates Caravaggio's mature technique of dramatic chiaroscuro, with the two figures strongly lit against a dark background. The naturalistic treatment of faces, hands, and costume details creates a sense of documentary realism unusual in religious painting.