The Last Supper

Definition

The Last Supper is a renowned mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci that depicts the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples before his crucifixion. This artwork is significant for its innovative use of linear perspective, dramatic expression, and composition, showcasing the evolving role of art in society and the shift towards more personal artist expressions during the Early Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Leonardo painted The Last Supper between 1495 and 1498 on the wall of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, using a tempera technique on dry plaster, which was innovative but also led to its rapid deterioration.
2. The composition features a complex arrangement of figures, with Jesus at the center, creating a sense of harmony and balance while illustrating individual reactions to his announcement of betrayal.
3. The use of linear perspective in The Last Supper directs the viewer's eye toward Jesus, emphasizing his significance in the scene and highlighting da Vinci's mastery of this technique.
4. The Last Supper reflects the religious context of the time, acting as both a narrative depiction and an invitation for contemplation on themes of faith, sacrifice, and redemption.
5. This painting influenced countless artists and remains a pivotal reference point in both art history and popular culture, symbolizing the intersection of art and spirituality.

Review Questions

• How does Leonardo's use of linear perspective in The Last Supper enhance the emotional impact of the scene?
  • Leonardo's application of linear perspective creates a vanishing point behind Jesus's head, drawing the viewer's focus directly to him. This technique not only emphasizes Jesus's central role in the narrative but also heightens the emotional tension among the disciples, each reacting differently to his announcement. The depth created by perspective serves to make the viewer feel a part of this pivotal moment, enhancing their connection to the artwork.
• In what ways did The Last Supper contribute to the emergence of artist biographies and self-portraiture during the Early Renaissance?
  • The Last Supper showcases Leonardo da Vinci's innovative approach and unique artistic vision, which contributed to his fame and established him as an individual artist rather than just a craftsman. This shift allowed artists to begin documenting their own lives and careers through biographies. The significance placed on artistic identity encouraged others to explore self-portraiture as a means of personal expression, reflecting their individuality in an evolving cultural landscape.
• Analyze how The Last Supper exemplifies key characteristics and innovations of Early Renaissance art while also foreshadowing trends that lead into the High Renaissance.
  • The Last Supper exemplifies Early Renaissance characteristics through its use of realistic human emotion, naturalistic forms, and masterful manipulation of space via linear perspective. Leonardo's approach highlights the transition from medieval symbolism to a focus on humanism and narrative clarity. These innovations set the stage for High Renaissance ideals, where artists would further explore depth, proportion, and anatomical accuracy while continuing to reflect on human experiences and spirituality in their work.

Related terms

Mural: A large painting or artwork applied directly to a wall, often meant to integrate with the architecture of the space.

Chiaroscuro: A technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects and figures.

Renaissance Humanism: A cultural and intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the value of human beings and sought inspiration from classical antiquity.