Introduction to ‘The Last Supper’

Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper,’ created between 1495 and 1498, is one of the most renowned paintings globally. Commissioned by Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, Leonardo’s patron during his initial stay in the city, this artwork was intended for the Dominican Monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The painting profoundly captures several interconnected moments from the Gospels, making it a seminal piece of Renaissance art.

Narrative and Composition

‘The Last Supper’ intricately illustrates key moments from the Gospels, particularly Matthew 26:21-28. In this segment, Jesus announces that one of his apostles will betray him, and subsequently, he institutes the Eucharist. Leonardo’s fascination with human expression is evident in the intricate portrayal of each disciple’s reaction. The apostles’ varied postures reflect a spectrum of responses—whispering, yelling, grieving, and debating—around the calmly seated Jesus at the center.

Leonardo’s Innovative Technique

Leonardo experimented with a unique technique for ‘The Last Supper,’ utilizing tempera or oil paint over two layers of preparatory ground. This experimental approach unfortunately led to the painting’s deterioration shortly after its completion. Despite this, the intricate study of human emotions within a seemingly simple composition remains apparent and continues to captivate viewers.

Conclusion

Though ‘The Last Supper’ began to disintegrate soon after it was finished, it stands as a testament to Leonardo da Vinci’s genius. The painting’s capacity to convey complex human emotions through posture, expression, and gesture, combined with its historical and religious significance, ensures its place as a masterpiece in the annals of art history.