The Last Supper

Definition

The Last Supper is a famous mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci that depicts the final meal shared by Jesus and his twelve apostles before his crucifixion. This artwork is significant in its exploration of themes such as betrayal, sacrifice, and the emotional intensity of human relationships, making it a crucial reference point in discussions about religious art, identity, and representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Last Supper was painted between 1495 and 1498 on the wall of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.
2. Leonardo employed innovative techniques like tempera on stone, which unfortunately has led to the mural's deterioration over the centuries.
3. The composition captures a dramatic moment when Jesus announces that one of the apostles will betray him, showcasing a range of human emotions among the figures.
4. Each apostle is depicted with unique gestures and expressions that reflect their individual reactions to Jesus' announcement, emphasizing the narrative's emotional depth.
5. The painting has inspired countless interpretations and adaptations across various cultures and art forms, reinforcing its status as a significant work in art history.

Review Questions

• How does The Last Supper reflect the emotional dynamics between Jesus and his apostles during this pivotal moment?
  • The Last Supper vividly captures the emotional turmoil among Jesus and his apostles as he reveals that one of them will betray him. Each apostle's expression and body language convey distinct reactions ranging from shock to sorrow, illustrating the complex relationships forged through shared experiences. This portrayal allows viewers to connect with the human aspects of faith, trust, and betrayal that are central to the narrative.
• Discuss how The Last Supper can be interpreted through the lens of diasporic and immigrant women artists, focusing on themes of identity and belonging.
  • Diasporic and immigrant women artists may interpret The Last Supper as a reflection of their own experiences with displacement and the search for belonging. By examining themes of betrayal and community within the artwork, these artists can draw parallels between their narratives and those depicted in da Vinci's mural. This reinterpretation can also challenge traditional narratives surrounding faith and identity, offering fresh perspectives on resilience and cultural heritage in the face of adversity.
• Evaluate how The Last Supper's iconography contributes to contemporary discussions about representation in art, particularly concerning gender and cultural identity.
  • The iconography of The Last Supper opens up critical conversations about representation in contemporary art, especially regarding gender dynamics and cultural identity. By analyzing how male figures dominate the original composition, discussions can emerge about the absence of female voices in historical religious narratives. This evaluation encourages a reevaluation of how women artists today reinterpret such iconic works to highlight their perspectives and challenge prevailing artistic traditions, fostering inclusivity and broader representation in art history.

Related terms

Renaissance Art: A cultural movement that emerged in Italy during the 14th to 17th centuries, characterized by a revival of classical learning, humanism, and the use of perspective in art.

Betrayal: A key theme in The Last Supper, particularly represented by Judas Iscariot's act of betrayal against Jesus, leading to profound emotional and spiritual implications.

Iconography:

The visual imagery and symbols used in art that convey deeper meanings or themes, often rooted in cultural or religious contexts.