The Greatest Era: The Renaissance

 

The Renaissance

Religion played a significant role in the Italian Renaissance. While the Renaissance is very often associated with classical art, literature and humanism, it also saw a strong influence of religion, especially Christianity. Many of the great artists of that time created religious artworks commissioned by the Catholic Church or its wealthy patrons. The church with its power and influence was a major contributor of the arts during this period. The church believed in promoting pieces of art that reflected strong Christian values and beliefs. 


I selected a painting that I have had in my home since I was approximately 8 years old, The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci. The painting was created between 1495 and 1498 on the wall of the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. The beautiful painting depicts the last meal Jesus had with the 12 disciples. Hours before he was betrayed by Judas he converted part of his body and blood into bread and wine for the people. The last supper is connected to humanism through its portrayal of human emotion, psychology and perspective. The painting emphasizes the importance of human values. Da Vinci's attention to detail is significant as he displays expression of emotions on the faces of the disciples. The use of perspective to create a sense of depth all reflects humanistic ideals by focusing on the human experience and the capabilities of individuals. 

As a practicing Catholic this painting to me symbolizes the gathering of loved ones and even if food was not available bread and wine will always depict as a way to get close to Jesus and God. 

Refrences:

Art Soul Life, "The Last Supper Painting: A timeless masterpiece of spiritual narrative", Art Soul Life Aesthetic Reflections, 28 Aug 2003
The Art Soul Life

"The Last Supper", La Salle University Digital Commons 
La Salle: The Last Supper


"The Last Supper Leonardo Da Vinci (1452-1519)"Cenacolo Vinciano 
Cenacolo: Last Supper



Comments

  1. SallieFebruary 27, 2024 at 11:41 PM

    Hey Carlos! I'm really glad that someone did "The Last Supper" because it is one of my favorite art pieces of Leonardo Da Vinci. Besides the piece that I chose, "The School of Athens", this piece also shows the not-so-linear perspective because of how the room is put together. I love how it's more shaded in the background, while the front is more towards the light, but the thing is that even though the back is shaded, the windows still show the light outside. The light in this painting really puts out the colors really well. It's a good thing that my family owns a copy of this painting because I could see it everyday.

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