The Last Supper

The iconic subject of The Last Supper by Albrecht Dürer, executed in 1510, exemplifies the mastery of printmaking during the early 16th century. This particular impression is a fine example of a woodcut on laid paper, a medium Dürer utilized extensively to democratize religious imagery and disseminate his designs throughout Europe. Created during the crucial period of 1501 to 1550, this print belongs to the height of the German Renaissance, an era defined by intellectual rigor and technical innovation in the graphic arts.

The composition depicts Christ and his Apostles gathered around a table, capturing a moment of profound significance, likely focusing either on the institution of the Eucharist or the revelation of the betrayer. Dürer, known for his precision and deep understanding of human anatomy and emotional expression, imbues the scene with the psychological drama typical of his large-format woodcut sequences. Unlike many Italian contemporaries who focused on monumental paintings or frescoes, Dürer leveraged the stark contrasts and deep black lines inherent in the woodcut technique. This method allowed the German master to achieve remarkable textural detail and powerful linear effects, making the work immediately compelling even in small scale.

As a significant Renaissance print, this piece demonstrates the lasting impact Dürer had on graphic arts across the continent. The technical skill displayed in the intricate carving required for a woodcut of this scale highlights his reputation as a master craftsman. The accessibility and reproducibility of prints like this one solidified Dürer’s position not just as a painter, but as the quintessential Northern European graphic artist. Because of its antiquity and cultural importance, historical copies of The Last Supper often enter the public domain, allowing wide study, but this specific impression is preserved in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art.