The woodcut titled “Last Supper” by Albrecht Dürer, dating from 1496 to 1510, is part of the Northern Renaissance movement. This religious painting belongs to the series “The Large Passion” and is currently housed at the Albertina Museum in Vienna, Austria. The artwork was created using the woodcut medium, which was a common technique during the Northern Renaissance for both art and book illustrations.
The artwork depicts the biblical scene of the Last Supper, where Jesus Christ shares his final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. The scene is rich with detail and emotion, reflective of the Northern Renaissance style, which is known for its emphasis on precision and a heightened sense of realism. The figures are gathered around a long table, with Jesus situated centrally as the focal point, exhibiting a typical layout for Last Supper portrayals but enriched by Dürer’s masterful rendering of textures, patterns, and light. The intricate details of the woodcut can be seen in the folds of the garments, the facial expressions of the individuals, and the architectural environment. In the background, the curvature of the domed space and the shaft of light beaming from a round window add both a dramatic and symbolic element to the composition. The work is marked by Dürer’s monogram, ensuring his authorship of the piece.
