Michelangelo Merisi, better known as Caravaggio, died on July 18, 1610. Four hundred years later, he is one of the most revered painters in history and a unique retrospective of his work in Rome, at the Scuderie del Quirinale, is drawing immense crowds. Many of Caravaggio's modern-day admirers are attracted by the mysterious sensuality of his chiaroscuro technique and exquisite portrayal of the divine spirit. In this Health & Beauty edition of Style, we pay homage to Caravaggio's brilliance, because this singular painter, in the way he captured the delicacy of the human face and form, reminds us that the elements of transcendent beauty are timeless. From a perfect, pale complexion to almond-shaped eyes full of longing, Caravaggio's figures demonstrate that a well-shaped eyebrow and the right shade of red can combine to make eyes and lips irresistible. Thus this month's fashion shoot was created in the style of Caravaggio's canvasses and our feature stories on herbal skin treatments, luxurious hair salons and the world's most famous perfume provide the perfect guide to looking as pretty as a picture. And for those who want to know which are the best beauty products right here and now there is no better place to look than our hit lists and gorgeous new trends pages, where the palette of colours is bold enough to make any painter envious.
