An early masterwork by Caravaggio, celebrated for its dramatic capture of sudden shock and pain. A young man recoils as a lizard lurking among cherries bites his finger. Caravaggio displays remarkable realism, revolutionary use of chiaroscuro, and exquisite still-life technique—most notably in the translucent glass vase and water reflections. Allegorically, the scene symbolizes the unexpected suffering and danger that often lie hidden behind sensual pleasures.