Boy Bitten by a Lizard

Caravaggio painted a youth recoiling in shock as a lizard bites his finger. The sudden movement and pained expression capture a split-second reaction. The boy's shoulder bare, his face contorted, the moment frozen forever.

This early work shows Caravaggio's interest in dramatic incident and psychological immediacy. Flowers and fruit on the table add symbolic meaning. Two versions exist, at the National Gallery, London and Fondazione Roberto Longhi, Florence.