Who painted Monks at Supper?

Monks at Supper was painted by Alessandro Magnasco in 1712.

Where can I see Monks at Supper?

Monks at Supper is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is Monks at Supper?

Monks at Supper is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Monks at Supper

Alessandro Magnasco , 1712

Monks at Supper is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Alessandro Magnasco. It dates from 1712 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Monks at Supper is a 1712 oil painting by Alessandro Magnasco, created during the early Baroque period in Italy. The work features a group of monks gathered for a meal in a dimly lit setting, characteristic of Magnasco's expressive genre scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene of monastic life, with robed figures huddled around a table. The emphasis is on the contemplative, possibly austere, atmosphere of the monks' supper, rather than on individualized portraits or narrative detail.

Technique & Style

Magnasco employed his signature swift, thick brushstrokes and dramatic chiaroscuro in this work. The sharp contrast between light and dark, courtesy of a single flickering candle, draws the viewer's focus to specific areas of the composition, adding depth and tactile quality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1712, the painting is part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection. Magnasco, active mainly in Milan and Genoa, was known for stylized, sometimes fantastical genre scenes.

Context

As an early Baroque piece, Monks at Supper reflects the period's emphasis on emotional intensity and dramatic lighting. Magnasco's style, however, also hints at the upcoming Rococo with its expressive, almost fantastical approach to everyday scenes.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of 'Monks at Supper' are not highlighted, the piece contributes to Magnasco's reputation for innovative genre painting, influencing later artists in their use of light and shadow in intimate, domestic settings.

Artist & collection

Artist

Alessandro Magnasco

Alessandro Magnasco (February 4, 1667 – March 12, 1749), also known as il Lissandrino, was an Italian late-Baroque painter active mostly in Milan and Genoa.