St. Charles Borromeo at Supper

work by Crespi

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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St. Charles Borromeo at Supper is a painting by Daniele Crespi, an Italian Baroque painter known for his emotionally direct religious art. Crespi was influenced by the realistic style advocated by the Council of Trent. His work, including St. Charles Borromeo at Supper (c. 1628), is characterized by stark contrasts between harsh shadows and raking overhead light.1

St. Charles Borromeo himself was a significant figure in the Counter-Reformation in Italy. He served as secretary of state to Pope Pius IV and worked to reform monasteries, simplify church interiors, and promote clerical education to counter Protestantism. Giovanni Battista Crespi, possibly related to Daniele, also painted a series of works depicting the life of St. Charles Borromeo for Milan Cathedral.23

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Daniele Crespi
His best works, such as St. Charles Borromeo at Supper (c. 1628), are distinguished by harsh shadows set off by a raking overhead light.
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His best works, such as St. Charles Borromeo at Supper (c. 1628), are distinguished by harsh shadows set off by a raking overhead light.
Read More