Da Vinci’s The Last Supper, completed at the end of the 15th century, is one of the most revered and famous paintings in history. Over the centuries, generations of awed bystanders have visited this masterpiece. They don’t know what they’re missing. Restoration work has been underway for nearly two decades and some astounding things have been unearthed. Only 20% of the original image remains; the rest has been overcome by the erosion of history. What details have been glossed over over time? “The Search for the Last Supper” attempts to recreate the original conception of the famous fresco.
Describing a seminal moment in biblical history when Christ announced he had been betrayed by one of his apostles, da Vinci imbued The Last Supper with a meticulous eye for detail and more detail than he had ever attempted before. Ambitious goals. Unfortunately, the oils he used did not stand the test of time and began to fade shortly after it was finished.
The filmmakers traveled to Italy, visiting many of the places where Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked. Viewers will experience his upbringing, education and the development of his unique artistic vision. Additionally, the film examines The Last Supper’s depiction of sacred iconography, historical context and raw emotion.
From there continue on to Tongero, Belgium, where the stunning second edition of The Last Supper was recently unearthed. Filmmakers are trying to figure out what inspired da Vinci to make the replica, who might have commissioned it, and how it differs from the original fresco that hangs in Milan’s Santa Maria Maggiore.
Various art historians help the filmmakers piece together details of da Vinci’s life and art throughout the film. They also reflect how his unique sensibility forever shaped a beloved artist for generations to come.
Finding the Last Supper is an exciting adventure around the world. The scenery is magnificent and the finds and artifacts are fascinating. The viewer will feel like a seasoned detective combing through the inner sanctums of the world of art history.
