Georges de La Tour (French, 1593–1652) was a French Baroque painter renowned for his masterful use of chiaroscuro, characterized by dramatic contrasts of light and shadow. Profoundly influenced by Caravaggio, La Tour's paintings are striking for their contemplative mood and profound spiritual depth. His compositions, often lit by a single candle or source of illumination, reveal meticulous attention to detail and affection.
La Tour's quiet, introspective scenes frequently explore themes of repentance, morality, and the fragile balance between life and death. Though largely forgotten after his death, his artistry underwent a remarkable revival in the early 20th century, establishing him as one of the most distinctive figures of his era.