Caravaggio and the guardian of mercy

Lecture in English by Terence Ward.

In a small church in Naples hangs one of the wonders of Italian art, the altarpiece of The Seven Acts of Mercy painted 400 years ago while Caravaggio was fleeing his murder conviction and the dreaded papal police. It carries a visionary message.

Terence Ward, author of Searching for Hassan: a Journey to the Heart of Iran,  has written a most unusual book that combines art history with an analysis of modern Naples and a story of desolation and redemption.

 ​“This is a story of grace! Terence Ward’s powerful, moving narrative interweaves Caravaggio’s life story with those of people in contemporary Naples whose lives are transformed by the power of art—and mercy. This remarkable book is arriving just at the right time.” - Elaine Pagels, author of The Gnostic Gospels

 

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