An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The Last SupperUgolino da Siena (Ugolino di Nerio)
Italian, Siena, active by 1317–died ?1339/49
ca. 1325–30
Overall, with engaged (modern) frame, 15 x 22 1/4 in. (38.1 x 56.5 cm); painted surface 13 1/2 x 20 3/4 in. (34.3 x 52.7 cm)
Painting
Tempera and gold on wood
Robert Lehman Collection
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
In "The Last Supper" by Ugolino da Siena, we see a moment frozen in time, filled with deep emotion and complexity. The scene captures the final meal Jesus shares with his disciples, a poignant moment that evokes reflection on friendship, loyalty, and impending betrayal.
The table is set simply, yet the figures surrounding it are rich with expression. Each disciple’s face tells a story; some appear contemplative, while others show signs of confusion or distress. Jesus, as the central figure, leans slightly toward Judas, perhaps foreshadowing the betrayal to come. This positioning creates a subtle tension between the calmness of Christ and the unrest among his followers.
Ugolino’s use of colors is particularly striking. The reds and greens of the disciples’ garments contrast beautifully with the softer tones of the wall behind them. The halos above their heads shimmer with gold, symbolizing their divinity and the sacredness of this moment. The warm light creates a serene atmosphere, inviting the viewer to reflect alongside the figures.
The composition leads our eyes naturally across the table, emphasizing the sense of unity and division present in this final gathering. Each character’s placement hints at the relationships and emotions intertwined in this event.
In summary, Ugolino da Siena’s "The Last Supper" is not just a depiction of a moment; it is an invitation to contemplate the complexities of trust and the fragility of bonds, leaving us with a sense of introspection that echoes long after viewing.
About the artist
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