Het Laatste Avondmaal 1526

This drawing of the Last Supper was made by an anonymous artist and is currently held in the Rijksmuseum. The image depicts the biblical scene of Jesus' final meal with his apostles, rendered in pen and brown ink. Without the identity of the artist, we are left to consider the broader cultural context that might have shaped its creation. What stories and understandings were being passed down about religion, community and faith? In this representation, the figures seem caught between the solemnity of the occasion and their own very human reactions. Notice the varied expressions and body language, conveying a mix of contemplation, surprise, and perhaps even a hint of anxiety. The setting is intimate, yet the emotional intensity is palpable. The drawing invites us to reflect on themes of loyalty, betrayal, and sacrifice. It also speaks to the enduring power of religious narratives and their ability to resonate across time and cultures.