Da Vinci.

What makes Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' a timeless masterpiece?

Duncan Williams  07 August 2024

(Photo: Getty/iStock)

Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper', created between 1495 and 1498, remains one of the most profound and influential Christian-themed artworks in history. Commissioned by Duke Ludovico Sforza of Milan for the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this fresco depicts the pivotal moment when Jesus announces that one of His disciples will betray Him, a revelation that sets the stage for His impending crucifixion.

This painting transcends mere artistic representation; it vividly captures the emotional and spiritual turmoil of the apostles, each figure rendered with remarkable psychological depth.

Imagine how groundbreaking it would have been when first viewed by Christian believers who had never before witnessed images of the people, places, or scenes described in the Bible. Such a vision of God would have been considered a blessing, and a painting like this had the power to illustrate the divine.

Leonardo's masterful use of perspective and composition not only draws viewers into the scene but also emphasises the gravity of the moment. The varied expressions and reactions of the apostles bring to life their shock and disbelief, showcasing Leonardo's unique ability to convey complex human emotions. Expressive, almost theatrical, body language is used to dramatise the moment on the canvas. It is almost as if too much is happening at once, and the eye is forced to digest small segments of detail and then piece these together into a fluid narrative.

Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrays Jesus, is positioned among the apostles but is distinctively set apart through da Vinci's composition. He is depicted reaching towards a dish, echoing Jesus's statement that the betrayer would share the dish with Him. Judas is also placed in shadow, contrasting with the more illuminated figures of the other apostles. This positioning and the darker hues used for Judas symbolise his inner turmoil and foreshadow his impending betrayal, highlighting his moral conflict and separation from the others. 

The layers of meaning in 'The Last Supper' have intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries. While some interpretations suggest hidden messages or esoteric symbols, many of these theories remain speculative. The arrangement of the figures, their gestures, and the interplay of light and shadow may indeed offer deeper insights into da Vinci's religious and philosophical reflections. However, these interpretations often reflect a broader quest to understand Leonardo's spiritual and intellectual world rather than definitive answers.

CT.