The Evolution of The Last Supper: How It Looks Today Compared to Leonardo da Vinci’s Original

When Leonardo da Vinci finished painting The Last Supper around 1498, it was an iconic fresco on the wall of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. However, the painting has undergone significant changes over the centuries, a testament to the challenges of preserving such a masterpiece.

Original Technique and Its Limitations

Da Vinci used a technique known as tempera on gesso instead of traditional fresco. This involved applying water-based paint on top of gesso (a type of plaster). While this technique offered the artist more control and allowed for more vibrant colors, it made the work more vulnerable to deterioration over time.

Challenges of Preservation

The painting began to deteriorate almost immediately after its completion. Environmental factors such as humidity from the adjacent refectory and the effects of time contributed to flaking and fading of the paint. The fragility of the material used required constant attention and maintenance. Da Vinci's own slow and laborious painting style likely contributed to the need for frequent retouching during his own work on the painting.

Restoration Efforts

Several restoration efforts were undertaken over the years. A major restoration from 1978 to 1999 aimed to remove layers of grime, previous restoration attempts, and graffiti. These efforts revealed more of Da Vinci's original work, providing a clearer picture of the intended artwork.

Current Appearance

Today, The Last Supper is much less vibrant than it was in its initial state. The colors have faded, and some details have been lost due to damage and previous restoration techniques. The current appearance reflects both the original work and the various modifications made during restoration efforts.

Despite these changes, the iconic composition and overall design of the painting remain intact. The modifications and restorations over the centuries have preserved the essence of Da Vinci's masterpiece, even if their impact is visible and sometimes controversial. The painting continues to draw visitors and scholars who are fascinated by its historical and artistic significance.

Conclusion

While The Last Supper retains its iconic status, its appearance today is significantly different from what it looked like when Leonardo da Vinci completed his work. The changes are a result of deterioration, environmental impacts, and restoration efforts over the centuries.

The enduring nature of this artistic achievement underscores the challenges of preserving such a valuable piece of Renaissance art. As technology and conservation methods continue to evolve, future generations may see the painting in a yet unimagined state, bringing us even closer to the original vision of one of history's greatest artists.