Den sidste nadver 1594

Curator: Look at the expressions on those faces. What do you see? Editor: Panic, definitely panic. A raw, exposed kind of fear captured in high contrast; dramatic, like theatre. Is this "The Last Supper?" Curator: Indeed. This engraving, "The Last Supper" by Jan Harmensz. Muller, dates back to 1594. It presents a compelling take on the biblical narrative. The work itself lives here at the SMK, The National Gallery of Denmark. Editor: Right, 1594… that places it firmly in the late Renaissance heading into the Baroque period. I am fascinated how Muller plays with the conventions. Look at the emotional charge packed into this familiar scene. How would this composition be received by the late 16th century audiences? Curator: Likely with both reverence and, perhaps, a little unease. The artist isn't afraid to dive into the darker, more human elements of betrayal and disbelief. I find myself focusing on the symbolism of hands: the offering of the plate above and the tension that emanates from those grasping each other beneath the table. The hands become the conduits of feeling, of both sustenance and suspicion. Editor: Yes, it is the use of the human figure in conjunction with strong tenebrism in light that really gets to the psychological tension between the figures here. Do you agree that the candlelight centralizes the scene to a feverish pitch in response to Christ’s foretelling of the events to come? Curator: Absolutely, the flame acts as a focal point—an uneasy beacon illuminating the growing anxiety among the disciples, especially coupled with the deep chiaroscuro shadowing them all. The stark contrast feels intended to instill that unsettling tension, wouldn't you agree? It also highlights the importance of capturing the mood with only line work instead of tonal or color options for shading and gradients. Editor: Right. The piece makes me think of the political and religious turmoil during Muller's life in the Netherlands, not to mention his move to and from different states of power during that time. With its complex symbolism and dynamic figures, this print encapsulates the unease of an era grappling with profound changes. A meditation of change if I've ever seen one. Curator: I agree completely. Its ability to evoke a sense of internal conflict resonates across time.