ART Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

ART - Essay Example The work was completed between 1495 and 1498. The original work, not a â€Å"true fresco (Olga’s, 2006),† because the artist did not work in the definition of that tradition, and did not apply the combination of oil and tempera he worked with to wet plaster (Olga’s, 2006). Rather, Leonardo applied a resin of pitch and gesso chalk to the plaster to seal the porous material (Olga’s, 2006). This would create a smoother surface upon which to apply the combination of oil and tempera the artist worked with, but did not create a surface that would sustain the work during the passage of time (Olga’s, 2006). The style in which Leonardo worked did allow him to create a bright, textured work â€Å"in exquisite detail (Olga’s, 2006).† The work, in a deteriorating condition, was later transferred to canvas, restored, and it is that restoration process that reflects what people commonly think of when they think of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It is the moment now to look at that as a work of art in more detail. Da Vinci’s Last Supper might be compared to the 12th century fresco found at the Church of San Baudelio near Berlanga, Spain (MFA Boston, 2006). What immediately strikes the observer in comparing the works, is that the earlier 12th century unknown artist of t he Spanish work used a very different placement of the key people depicted in the work. In the 12th century work, Judas, whom Jesus does not mention by name, but nonetheless advises His disciples that one of them will betray Him; is in front of the table, set apart from the other disciples by his position in front of the table. This depiction of Judas at the front of the table, rather than as Leonardo presents Judas, sitting at the table; is considered the â€Å"traditional† depiction of Judas (MFA, 2006). What we also note about the earlier artist’s interpretation is that the disciples are haloed, except for Judas, of course. This, too, is