The Last Supper

Definition

The Last Supper is a renowned mural painting created by Leonardo da Vinci in the late 15th century, depicting the final meal shared by Jesus Christ and his apostles before his crucifixion. This iconic artwork illustrates the moment when Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him, capturing a wide range of emotions and reactions from those present. As a significant piece of mural art, it showcases the blend of religious themes with innovative techniques that influenced both art and design in public spaces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Last Supper was commissioned by Duke Ludovico Sforza of Milan for the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
2. Leonardo employed a unique technique using tempera on a dry wall, which contributed to its rapid deterioration compared to traditional fresco methods.
3. The composition features the apostles reacting in various ways to Jesus's announcement, showcasing Leonardo's mastery in portraying human emotion and interaction.
4. The mural has undergone numerous restoration efforts over the years, with the most significant restoration completed in 1999, aiming to preserve its original colors and details.
5. The Last Supper has inspired countless replicas and adaptations in various forms of art, solidifying its status as a cultural icon beyond just religious significance.

Review Questions

• How does The Last Supper illustrate the emotional dynamics between Jesus and his apostles?
  • The Last Supper captures a pivotal moment filled with emotional tension as Jesus reveals that one of his apostles will betray him. Each apostle reacts differently—some in shock, others in denial or anger—showcasing Leonardo's ability to depict a range of human emotions. This emotional complexity not only draws viewers into the narrative but also emphasizes the gravity of the moment leading to Jesus's crucifixion.
• Discuss the significance of The Last Supper in the context of Renaissance art and its influence on mural painting techniques.
  • The Last Supper holds a crucial place in Renaissance art due to its innovative use of perspective and composition. Leonardo's approach to space, where figures appear to recede into the background, marked a departure from earlier flat representations. This mural not only influenced future artists in their techniques but also set a precedent for integrating narrative storytelling into public art spaces.
• Evaluate the impact of restoration efforts on the interpretation and appreciation of The Last Supper as a historical artwork.
  • Restoration efforts have significantly impacted how The Last Supper is interpreted and appreciated today. By carefully removing layers of grime and previous restorations, experts aimed to bring out Leonardo’s original colors and details. This meticulous work allows modern audiences to engage with the artwork in a way that more closely aligns with its initial visual impact, enhancing both its historical value and cultural significance as a masterpiece of mural art.

Related terms

Muralism: A movement in visual arts focused on creating large-scale wall paintings that engage with social and political themes.

Fresco: A technique of mural painting where water-based pigments are applied on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the paint to become an integral part of the wall.

Renaissance Art: An artistic movement that emerged in Europe during the 14th to 17th centuries, emphasizing humanism, perspective, and a revival of classical learning and aesthetics.