The Last Supper

Nikolai Ge’s version of The Last Supper departs from the classical Renaissance idealism, as it presents a raw, psychological interpretation of the biblical event that encourages the viewer to see the figures as being overwhelmed rather than in a state of enlightened calmness that was typical in earlier works. The artist does not create an environment that emphasizes symmetry or divinity through the use of an aura but captures the moment immediately following Christ’s prediction of his betrayal as an emotionally disruptive moment of inner turmoil among the figures. The composition is based on the point in time that follows immediately after Christ predicts that one of the 12 apostles will betray him. Instead of being standing upright and assuming a position of authority or command, Jesus is depicted in a reclining position on a low couch in keeping with the customs of the ancient Middle East. He is shown in a state of extreme fatigue, sorrow and extreme loneliness as he considers his impending fate. The dramatic tension within the scene is created by the highly contrasted qualities of light and shadow. A low lamp positioned on the floor casts very long theatrical shadows throughout the room, serving a similar function to that of a spotlight on a stage. This intense use of chiaroscuro creates a silhouette of Judas Iscariot, who is hurriedly putting a cloak around his shoulders as he prepares to leave into the night, standing to the right of Jesus. The strong contrast of light and shadow serves to intensify the image of Judas as a symbol of moral failure, since his face is completely obscured by shadow. Conversely, the harsh light illuminates the raw, undeflected expressions on the faces of the remaining disciples.