The Last Supper 

Palma il Giovane created this pen and brown ink drawing of the Last Supper around the late 16th or early 17th century. Religious images like this one played a crucial role in Venice's cultural and spiritual life. During this time, Venice was not only a major artistic center but also a republic with its own distinct political and social structures. The Church and the State were closely intertwined, influencing artistic production and patronage. Palma’s depiction of the Last Supper, a pivotal event in Christian theology, can be seen as a reflection of Venice's religious devotion, but also of the social and political importance of religious institutions. To fully understand the meaning of this work, it’s helpful to consult historical documents, theological texts, and other artworks from the period. Ultimately, appreciating art requires us to consider the complex social and institutional contexts in which it was created.