Livio Lupi da Caravaggio: Profile and Legacy
Livio Lupi da Caravaggio (fl. 1607) was an Italian musician and music theorist active in the early 17th century. He is not listed among Italian visual artists or painters, nor is there any evidence he was involved in painting; his contributions are exclusively in the realm of music and dance theory. The designation “da Caravaggio” suggests he likely originated from Caravaggio in Lombardy, northern Italy.
Key Works and Contributions
Livio Lupi is primarily known for his treatise, 'Il Libro di gagliarda, tordiglione, passa e mezzo, canari e passeggi', published in Palermo in 1607. The work is a comprehensive collection and instructional guide for Renaissance dances, detailing twenty different dance forms popular at the time. The treatise stands out for its rich documentation of Italian dance practice around 1600 and reflects the deep Spanish cultural influence present in Italy at the time. Lupi dedicated a whole section of the book to Don Geronimo del Carretto, a member of a Spanish family who had settled in Sicily, likely his employer.
Important pieces from the treatise, such as 'Alta carretta con sua sciolta', 'Aria di Fiorenza', and 'Aria del Gran Ducha', are still performed today, often included in programs of Renaissance dance music.
Connection to Modern Performances
The Broadside Band, directed by Jeremy Barlow, is known for interpreting Renaissance Italian dances, including works that originate from Lupi’s treatise. Albums and concerts featuring Italian dances from around 1600, such as "Il Ballarino: Italian Dances, c. 1600," frequently draw on Lupi’s legacy, showcasing music and choreography preserved in his writings.
This melodious artwork transports us back in time through its striking imagery and profound detailing, making the age-old dance forms come alive. To add to the viewing experience, the exhibition features harmonizing auditory accompaniments by The Broadside Band led by Jeremy Barlow. Their melodious symphony is a subtle reminder of how intertwined the arts truly are - painting, dance, and music.
Clarification: Not a Painter
Despite the similarity in name and geographic origin to the famed painter Caravaggio, Livio Lupi da Caravaggio was not a painter. His contributions lie in the realm of music and dance theory. Therefore, any references to works or exhibitions by Livio Lupi da Caravaggio as a painter are incorrect.