The Last Supper
Historical Context
The Last Supper by Tiepolo, at the Louvre, dates from around 1747 and brings the Venetian master's characteristic luminosity to this most solemn of Christian subjects. Tiepolo's treatment emphasizes the architectural grandeur of the setting, placing Christ and the apostles in a palatial interior. Tiepolo worked in oil on canvas with a high-keyed luminous palette built on a light ground — influenced by Piazzetta but pushed toward distinctive silvery brilliance. His vast decorative programs at ...
Technical Analysis
The monumental architecture creates a sense of ceremonial gravity appropriate to the institution of the Eucharist. Tiepolo's cool, silvery palette and flowing brushwork keep the composition elegant even in this solemn moment, while the varied expressions of the apostles provide narrative richness.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the monumental architecture creating a sense of ceremonial gravity appropriate to the institution of the Eucharist.
- ◆Look at the cool, silvery palette and flowing brushwork that keep the composition elegant even in this solemn moment of the Last Supper.
- ◆Find the varied expressions among the apostles that provide narrative richness within the palatial interior setting.
