Italy's 'Caravaggio of Tattoos' Luigi Mansi Wows Russell Crowe With Realistic Portrait

As a tattoo artist, Italian inker Luigi Mansi stands out as capable of truly bringing his subject matter to life as his creations are incredibly realistic. Based in Latina, south of Rome, Mansi has been honing his craft since the tender age of 19. He has been dubbed the "Caravaggio of Tattoos" due to his love of the Renaissance painter and realistic style. A tattoo of Russell Crowe as Maximus Meridius from Gladiator even drew the attention of the actor himself. Russell wrote on Twitter/X: “I’m told this is by Italian tattoo artist @luigimansi_ . I’m flabbergasted. I’ve never seen tattoo work like this. Strength and Honour Luigi.”. Speaking of what it was like to be praised by Russell, Luigi said: “Ii was incredible, a unique emotion! As soon as I received the notification I didn't believe it“. “From now, every time I watch that film, I will think that Russell looked at one of my tattoos and shared it saying that is one of the best tattoos he’s ever seen!”. He also said that if Russell is up for getting a tattoo it would be “wonderful” to do the honours. Mansi draws inspiration from Caravaggio, particularly admiring the 15th Century master's adept use of contrasts, shadows, and light points in his art. He has utilised his talent to give clients incredible, realistic portraits of their favourite stars, a loved one or animals like tigers, wolves, and dogs.