The Last Supper
16th century
Medium/TechniqueTin-glazed earthenware (maiolica)
DimensionsOverall: 21.6 x 32.6 x 58.1 cm (8 1/2 x 12 13/16 x 22 7/8 in.)
Other: 37.5 x 62.2 cm (14 3/4 x 24 1/2 in.)
H. 8 1/2"; W. 12 5/6" (14 3/4" with base); L. 22 7/8" (24 1/2" with base)
Other: 37.5 x 62.2 cm (14 3/4 x 24 1/2 in.)
H. 8 1/2"; W. 12 5/6" (14 3/4" with base); L. 22 7/8" (24 1/2" with base)
Credit LineBequest of R. Thornton Wilson in memory of Florence Ellsworth Wilson
Accession number1983.61
On View
On viewClassificationsCeramics
Collections
Composed of moveable figures, this Last Supper may have been a seasonal decoration, taken out and arranged during the week leading up to Easter Sunday. Such miniature tableaux are unusual, and provide a rare glimpse of how devotional practices became part of the decoration of the private home or monastery. Christ and the twelve apostles are seated around a table set with maiolica jugs, plates of food, and knives-forks were not yet customary at table.
ProvenanceR. Thornton Wilson (b. 1886 - d. 1977), New York; 1983, bequest of R. Thornton Wilson to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 12, 1983)
first half of 17th century
about 1600
about 1540
about 1525
early 16th century
about 1525–30
about 1510
about 1427–31