Last Supper c. 17th century

Curator: It is a tiny etching, yet packed with drama. There is a strange sense of intimacy with so many figures crammed into such a small space. Editor: Indeed. What we are looking at is Jacques Callot's "Last Supper," held in the Harvard Art Museums. Callot, who lived from 1592 to 1635, created this miniature scene using etching techniques. Curator: Notice how Callot uses light and shadow to direct our gaze toward Christ. The radiating lines above his head create a halo effect, emphasizing his divinity. Editor: Given the historical context, this piece reflects the Counter-Reformation's emphasis on religious imagery, aiming to inspire piety and reaffirm Catholic doctrine through accessible prints. Curator: I agree. The table acts as a strong horizontal base, while the figures lean in, creating a dynamic, almost circular composition. Editor: Its intimate scale allowed wider distribution, bringing the narrative of the Last Supper to a broader public, reinforcing its spiritual and cultural significance. Curator: A simple, yet effective use of line and form. Editor: An artwork that served both a spiritual and a political purpose.