The Last Supper

Definition

The Last Supper is a renowned mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci, created between 1495 and 1498, depicting the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. This artwork captures a pivotal moment in Christian theology and illustrates the emotional dynamics among the figures at the table, showcasing the transition from the Middle Ages to the High Renaissance through its innovative composition and use of perspective.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Last Supper is located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy, and is one of the most famous artworks in Western art history.
2. Leonardo employed a unique experimental technique using tempera and oil on a dry wall, which led to its rapid deterioration, making preservation challenging.
3. The painting features 13 figures, including Jesus at the center, surrounded by his twelve apostles, each reacting differently to his announcement of betrayal.
4. This artwork exemplifies the use of linear perspective, drawing the viewer's eye towards Jesus, who is placed at a vanishing point in the composition.
5. Leonardo's Last Supper has inspired countless reproductions and interpretations throughout art history, reflecting its enduring impact on culture and religion.

Review Questions

• How does The Last Supper reflect the transition from Medieval to High Renaissance art techniques?
  • The Last Supper reflects this transition through its use of linear perspective and realistic human emotions. Leonardo's innovative approach to composition and spatial organization marks a departure from the flat, symbolic representations typical of Medieval art. The way he captures the psychological reactions of each apostle demonstrates an interest in individualism and naturalism that became hallmarks of High Renaissance art.
• In what ways does The Last Supper employ chiaroscuro to enhance its visual impact?
  • Leonardo utilizes chiaroscuro in The Last Supper to create depth and volume among the figures. By contrasting light and shadow, he brings attention to key elements such as Jesus and highlights their facial expressions and gestures. This technique not only enhances the three-dimensionality of the characters but also adds emotional intensity to the scene, making it more dramatic and engaging for viewers.
• Evaluate the significance of The Last Supper within the broader context of Renaissance art and its influence on future artistic movements.
  • The significance of The Last Supper lies not just in its masterful execution but also in its profound influence on both religious art and secular movements that followed. As a pioneering work that emphasizes human emotion and narrative depth, it set a standard for storytelling in visual art. Its impact can be seen across various artistic movements that followed, including Baroque and Romanticism, which similarly focused on emotional expression and dramatic scenes, demonstrating Leonardo's lasting legacy in shaping artistic approaches.

Related terms

Mural: A large painting or artwork applied directly to a wall or ceiling, often intended to enhance architectural spaces.

Chiaroscuro: A technique used in painting to create a strong contrast between light and dark, enhancing the three-dimensionality of figures.

Perspective: A method of creating the illusion of depth and space on a flat surface, particularly important in Renaissance art for achieving realism.