May 28 in Christian History.
“Creativity is not a mood. Creativity is not a gift. It’s the very nature of God inside you.”
-Dan McCollam
Our world is a masterpiece and God is the great artist. Creativity is a large aspect of the spark of God’s image in us. Therefore, art in its purest form, brings glory to God. Not only is art a form of worship itself, it can also lead others to worship God. There is no better example of this than in the case of Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
The painting was commissioned by the duke of Milan, Ludovico Sforza, in 1495. The 15-foot by 29-foot masterpiece was painted in the dining hall at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie monestary in Milan, Italy.
The painting depicts the moment after Jesus declares that one of the disciples will betray him to his death (Matthew 26:21-28). Da Vinci vividly portrays the reactions of Jesus’ closest friends at this shocking revelation. The expressions and stance of each disciple is closely linked to their personalities. Unlike in other 15th century paintings, Jesus does not have a halo. It seems that Da Vinci was attempting to ground his painting in reality and emphasize Jesus’ humanity.
The Last Supper has been an inspiration to thousands of Christians in the following centuries. One can sense the shock and grief of the disciples as well as the courage and serenity of Christ in a way that transcends the power of words.
Unfortunately, the painting has deteriorated over the years. Grime, dirt, mold, and ashes have discoloured the work. In the 17th century, a door was cut into the wall that destroyed a portion of the painting. Napoleon’s army used the room as a stable, contributing to its decline. In World War II, a bomb destroyed the roof and one wall of the room—exposing the painting to the elements for several months.
In the 1970s, several artists undertook the pain staking task to restore the aging masterpiece. The colours were revitalized and missing sections were replaced in a process that lasted 20 years. On May 28th, 1999, the Last Supper was, once again, opened to the public.
Verse of the day: Isaiah 64:8
But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.