The artwork titled “Last Supper” by Benjamin West is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Neoclassicism art movement. It is a religious painting that depicts the significant biblical scene of the Last Supper.
In the artwork, a group of thirteen figures is depicted around a table, with the central figure being Jesus Christ, marked by a radiant halo. The Apostles surround him, each displaying varied emotions and gestures, indicative of the narrative’s dramatic tension. The table is adorned with a simple white cloth, upon which rests the symbolic elements of the Eucharist including a chalice and bread. The setting evokes a sense of solemnity and reflection, with an arched window in the background revealing a serene sky. The use of light, particularly on Jesus Christ, enhances the focal point of the scene, emphasizing the divine nature of the moment. The rich, warm tones and meticulous attention to detail are characteristic of West’s neoclassical style, reflecting both the gravity and the spiritual significance of the event.