The Last Supper
Tempera on gesso wall, 460 x 880, by Leonardo da Vinci, 1495–97
Convent of Santa Maria della Grazie, Milan
Ministero della cultura - Direzione Regionale Musei Lombardia

This work is celebrated not only for its subject matter, but also for the innovative artistic techniques employed by the masterful painter. One notable aspect is the use of sfumato, a technique where colours and tones blend gradually into one another, creating a subtle and atmospheric effect. This technique is evident in the soft transitions between light and shadow on the faces of the disciples and in the background. Da Vinci's meticulous attention to detail, combined with his mastery of perspective and composition, contributes to the painting's immersive and realistic quality. The precisely calculated vanishing point at Christ's head draws the viewer's gaze to the emotional focal point of the scene. Painting on gesso proved to be less durable than fresco, and so, over the centuries, the painting suffered from decay and environmental factors, leading to significant deterioration. In the late 20th century, a major restoration effort took place, spearheaded by Pinin Brambilla Barcilon. The restoration, which began in 1978 and concluded in 1999, aimed to stabilise the painting and reveal as much of the original work as possible. This intricate process involved removing layers of grime and overpainting while carefully preserving the remaining fragments of Da Vinci's masterpiece. The restoration efforts have provided a clearer glimpse into the artist's genius and ensured the longevity of this work.