Communion of the Apostles

Federico Barocci painted the Communion of the Apostles in 1603 for the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, one of his late masterworks. The painting depicts the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper, a subject of paramount importance in Counter-Reformation theology. Barocci's deeply emotional treatment, combining naturalistic observation with mystical light effects, profoundly influenced the development of Baroque religious painting.

The composition arranges the apostles around Christ with characteristic Barocciesque warmth and emotional intimacy. The pastel palette and luminous sfumato effects create an atmosphere of supernatural tenderness.