lice records. When Caravaggio completed his apprenticeship in 1588, he was seventeen years old. Reports say that Caravaggio was seen in the town of Milan multiple times between 1589-1592, but the town was too small to provide a bright young artist any support or much interest. So it is likely that he traveled to places like Lombardy and Veneto, even maybe as far as Venice, picking up whatever jobs and commission he could acquire(Friedlaender 57). When his mother died in 1590 Caravaggio was given a large settlement from his parents estate. He used that money to comfortably support him for a year or two. This money could have lasted him longer but he seemed to squander it somewhat quickly. It has been said that he was already a turbulent extravagant man and that is why he went through his inheritance so rapidly(Langdon 28-29). He probably then set off for Rome. No attempt has ever been made to trace his route. His personal possessions could have fit in a nap sack or wallet, but what he possessed in his mind was endless. As an apprentice in Milan he not only learned the basics but also a skill for portraiture and still life(Friedlander 57-58)Caravaggio probably arrived in Rome around the autumn of 1592. Compared to modern standards its population was very small. Rome was cosmopolitan. Very few of artists active were native. Most came to study and to find patronage. Although Caravaggio didnt enjoy the favor of newly elected pope, Clement VIIIAldobrandini or of his family, yet he gained the support from those who did. Once he had established his reputation, every one wanted his services(Langdon 33-36). By 1603 Caravaggio knew all of the painters who worked there, and his acquaintanceship extended even further. His business came from rich individuals and religious establishments(Friedlaender 57-60). When Carravaggio arrived in the city he was just 21. Exactly what happened to him and when was not recorded. Bagl...
