Artwork
The last supper
The last supper is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich. It dates from 1445 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Last Supper is a 15th-century religious oil painting created by Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich in 1445, now part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a pivotal moment from Christian tradition, the painting shows Jesus Christ (centered, with light hair and pale robe) in a gesture of elevation, surrounded by his apostles engaged in various reactions—reaching for food, drinking, pointing, or gesturing—capturing a moment of transition and emotional response.
Technique & Style
Characterized by a warm color palette (dominant reds, browns, and golds, accented with cooler blues and greens in attire), the work features simple yet expressive facial renderings with large eyes and pronounced lines. The artist achieved soft, glowing effects through smooth, layered paint application, notably in skin tones and robes.
History & Provenance
Created in 1445 by Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich, the painting's historical trajectory culminates in its current residence at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, though specific details of its journey there are not provided in the available information.
Context
Reflecting early Northern European Renaissance influences, The Last Supper situates itself within a tradition of devotional art, likely intended for a religious or private chapel setting to evoke contemplation on the Last Supper's theological significance.
Legacy
While specific influences or notable reproductions/adaptations of this particular work by Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich are not detailed, it contributes to the broader artistic and religious discourse surrounding depictions of the Last Supper in European art history.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich
Meester van het Altaar van Friedrich (1425–1475) was an artist.
