The artwork titled “THE LAST SUPPER (AFTER LEONARDO)”, created by Yinka Shonibare in 2013, represents the Contemporary and Postcolonial art movements. This artwork, which is categorized as a sculpture, is a reinterpretation of Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic “The Last Supper”.
The artwork portrays a lavish and vibrant dinner scene, markedly distinct from da Vinci’s original work. Headless mannequins, adorned in bright and ornate African fabrics, stand in place of the biblical figures. This substitution challenges traditional Eurocentric narratives, effectively blending cultural references. The opulence of the table, laden with a bounty of food, flowers, and decorative objects, adds to the atmospheric richness and depth of the piece. The use of African textiles and the absence of facial features serve as a critique of colonialism and identity, urging the viewer to contemplate themes of globalization, cultural hybridity, and the lingering impacts of colonial history.
