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RUBENS, Peter Paul: Last Supper

🖼 Last Supper, 1631-32
Oil on canvas
304 × 250 cm
Milan, Italy

Last Supper Rubens' dynamic interpretation of this biblical narrative exemplifies the dramatic energy and rich palette characteristic of Flemish Baroque art. The composition captures the moment of Christ's revelation with swirling movement and intense emotion, as the apostles react with shock and sorrow to his announcement of betrayal. Through masterful use of light, color, and muscular figuration, Rubens transforms a solemn moment into a visceral, deeply human experience that reflects the spiritual intensity valued by Counter-Reformation patrons.

The story of art
The story of art
E. H. Gombrich
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