Het Laatste Avondmaal 1691 - 1767

This is Louis Surugue’s engraving of ‘The Last Supper’, made sometime around the first half of the 18th century. It depicts Jesus’ final meal with his apostles before his crucifixion, a pivotal moment in Christian theology, one laden with themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption. Considering the social and political backdrop of 18th-century Europe, dominated by religious institutions, this image takes on new layers of meaning. The print circulated widely, reinforcing religious doctrine but also offering a point of reflection for people from different walks of life. Look at the expressions and body language of the figures around the table. How do they convey a sense of impending doom and emotional turmoil? Consider how gender and class dynamics might be at play, as the image reinforces a patriarchal structure with Jesus at the center, surrounded by his male disciples. Surugue’s ‘Last Supper’ invites us to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves about faith, community, and power, and how these stories shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.