Leonardo, the Renaissance Master

Last Supper is an artwork by Leonardo da Vinci which presents a dramatic scene which is closely connected to the Gospels.  The last supper painting captures a unique moment in which Jesus tells the disciples that one of them will betray him.  The painting captures the tense moment that shows how the disciples are shocked and astonished and reacts and express emotion. The Apostles are on the same side of the table, and they are grouped into four groups (Mannering, 1989). The first group comprises three apostles (Bartholomew, James, and Andrew) who are surprised; the second group comprises three apostles; Judas who will betray Jesus, John and Simon Peter.  The third group three apostles who are shocked and the fourth group also comprise three apostles who are discussing the matter.  All the disciples are shown on the same side of the table to show there varying psychological reaction toward the matter (Mannering, 1989).

  Leonardo gives more realism to the painting by abandoning the traditional method and using a realistic style.  First, he used a dried plaster to cover the wall and attended a lead white oil painting to make the painting look brighter.  The technique was effective as it created a chromatic brilliance where the art featured intensity and lightness.  In general, rather than using the fresco painting where artists applied in painting the plaster, he used the tempera on dry plasters (Mannering, 1989). One of Leonardo's invention that most fascinate me is the Parachute.  The fascinating thing is that it has a wooden pyramid structure and it can allow a human being to jump from great height and arrive on the Earth safely. 

 

I can compare Leonardo with some modern figure such as Steve Jobs of the 20th century.  The latter has brought innovations and technology such as Macintosh (consumer computer), Mouse, iMac, iPod, and iPad; he founded Apple and PiXar Pixar among many things.  Steven and Leonardo have similar characters in that they focus on art and science, beauty and design.  They had knowledge and passion and showed their ability in technology and innovation.  Another modern figure is Walter Russell of the 20th century.   He introduced a new concept of the universe and technology and innovation such as the artificial lift pup discharge, surgical drape system, flexible medical intubation, and more (Mannering, 1989).

 

 

Reference

Mannering, D. (1989). The art of Leonardo da Vinci. New York: Gallery Books.