The Last Supper 1753

Marcos Zapata painted this version of "The Last Supper" in the 18th century, during a time of significant cultural and religious exchange in colonial Peru. Zapata, an indigenous artist, reinterprets a very well known biblical scene through the lens of his own cultural context. While maintaining the traditional representation of Christ and his disciples, the inclusion of local foods offers a glimpse into the negotiations of identity taking place in the Americas. Did you notice that the main dish is a guinea pig? This was a delicacy in the region. The decision to include indigenous cuisine into such a significant Christian scene reflects the complex relationship between the colonizers' religion and local customs. Zapata's "Last Supper" becomes a powerful statement about cultural adaptation and the blending of identities. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which cultures intertwine, creating new and unique interpretations of shared stories.