Who painted The Last Supper?

The Last Supper was painted by Francesco Fontebasso in 1762.

Where can I see The Last Supper?

The Last Supper is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is The Last Supper?

The Last Supper is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

The Last Supper

Francesco Fontebasso , 1762

The Last Supper is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Francesco Fontebasso. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Last Supper, a religious painting by Italian artist Francesco Fontebasso, was created in 1762 using oil paint. Characterized by Rococo elegance, it depicts a solemn gathering of robed men around a table, with a central figure of focus. The work is part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the New Testament's Last Supper, conveying an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence. The central figure, presumably Jesus, is the focal point, with the apostles' varied reactions capturing the emotional depth of the moment.

Technique & Style

Fontebasso employed oil paint to achieve the Rococo style's signature decorative elegance and soft, flowing forms. The composition features subtle lighting, highlighted by a chandelier above the table, and meticulous detail in the table settings and robes.

History & Provenance

Created in 1762, The Last Supper is attributed to Francesco Fontebasso, influenced by Sebastiano Ricci and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. After its creation, the painting eventually became part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection, where it remains.

Context

While primarily active in Venice, Fontebasso also worked in Saint Petersburg, producing decorative pieces like ceiling paintings for the Winter Palace. This broader context suggests The Last Supper might reflect both Venetian and Russian patronage influences, though its specific commission details are unclear.

Legacy

As a Rococo interpretation of a seminal religious event, The Last Supper contributes to the visual legacy of Biblical narratives in 18th-century European art. Its presence in the Hermitage underscores its continued relevance as a piece of cultural and artistic heritage.