The artwork “The Sacrament of the Last Supper” is an oil on canvas painting created by Salvador Dali in 1955. Belonging to the Surrealism movement, this remarkable piece spans 167 by 268 centimeters, illustrating a religious scene. Displayed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, USA, the painting reflects Dali’s unique and dreamlike interpretation of the biblical narrative.
In the artwork, the scene depicted is a surreal reconstruction of the biblical Last Supper. The setting is an ethereal, semitransparent dodecahedron—a shape often associated with the universe and the heavens in the philosophy of Plato. This geometric solid hovers over a calm, coastal landscape that is likely inspired by the area around Port Lligat where Salvador Dali lived. The tones are muted, consisting primarily of soft yellows, pale blues, and earthy browns, providing a sense of peace and stillness to the composition.
Centered in the composition is Jesus, who is portrayed with an expression of serene contemplation. Barring any traditional halo, Jesus instead is backlit by a glowing, ethereal light, emphasizing his divine nature. Surrounding him are twelve apostles, their faces obscured, bowed in prayer or deep reflection. Unlike many classical depictions of the Last Supper, Dali’s interpretation does not depict the apostles in a moment of dynamic interaction or dramatic response to Christ’s declaration of betrayal. Instead, there is a palpable calmness enveloping the scene.
Distinct from many other artistic interpretations of the same subject, the presence of the oversized, translucent figure above the table, extending its arms in a way that parallels the crucifixion, is ambiguously integrated into the scene. This ghostly form alludes to the spiritual presence and the notion of the Eucharist as a manifestation of the body of Christ.
The table itself is presented without front legs, seemingly floating in the space, contributing to the dreamy ambiance of the painting. The bread and wine – symbolic of the body and blood of Christ given during the sacrament – are rendered realistically and occupy a central position on the table, drawing the viewer’s eye to the heart of the sacrament being represented. The coastline and water in the background blend seamlessly into the horizon, amplifying the sense of limitless space, characteristic of Dali’s expansive dreamscapes.
Overall, the artwork offers a mystic and metaphysical interpretation of a revered religious narrative, replete with symbolic gestures and elements that encourage a contemplative engagement with the scene.
