Last supper detail

Detail from Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, one of the most studied and copied works of the Renaissance, reveals expressions and gestures of the apostles.

About this subject

The Last Supper, painted by Leonardo da Vinci between 1495 and 1498, adorns the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. It depicts the biblical moment when Jesus announces that one of the apostles will betray him. Each figure reacts uniquely, and a detail allows observation of the hands, faces, and interactions that Leonardo carefully planned.

Unlike traditional frescoes, Leonardo used an experimental tempera and oil technique on plaster, which accelerated the painting's deterioration. Already in the 16th century, the work began to flake and lose details. Several restorations over the centuries attempted to preserve what remained, with the most recent completed in 1999, removing overpaint and revealing colors closer to the original.

The composition uses linear perspective with the vanishing point at Christ's head, creating depth and guiding the eye. Expressive hands, such as Judas clutching the money bag, or Thomas's gesture of disbelief, are often highlighted in details. The work influenced countless later depictions and remains the subject of historical and artistic studies, as well as conspiracy theories, such as those raised in the book 'The Da Vinci Code'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper located?

The painting is in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy.

Why is the Last Supper so deteriorated?

Leonardo used an experimental tempera and oil technique on plaster, which did not adhere well to the wall, causing flaking and loss of pigments over the centuries.

Why are the hand details so important in the work?

The apostles' hands convey emotions and reactions to the announcement of betrayal, such as Judas's hand holding the money bag, symbolizing his greed.