The artwork titled “Institution of the Eucharist” by Fra Angelico, created between 1445 and 1446, is a pen-and-paper sketch that belongs to the Early Renaissance art movement. Categorized under sketches and studies, this piece is housed in the Louvre in Paris, France.
The artwork depicts a religious scene centered on the Eucharist, a significant event in Christian theology. The composition features several figures with halos, illustrating their divine nature. The central figure, presumably Jesus, stands with a raised arm, possibly blessing the individuals who kneel before him. The composition is simple yet profound, showcasing Fra Angelico’s skill in conveying spirituality and solemnity through minimalistic means. The use of pen on paper lends a particular delicateness to the piece, fitting for a study or preliminary sketch for a larger work. The figures are rendered with fine, detailed lines, characteristic of Fra Angelico’s meticulous approach to form and expression. The worn texture of the paper suggests the passage of time, adding an element of historical authenticity to this revered piece.