1498: Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Refectory), Milan
The central figure of Christ is surrounded by the two groups of three disciples on either side of him while two other groups of three are at the end of the long, cloth-covered table. All the figures are dramatically engaged within their own group with the exception of Judas whose hand stretches towards the purse, the strong shadow down his front emphasising his hand. the picture plan is broken by a clear perspective, its depth being opposed by the cloth running across the length of the painting. It is a simple construction, beautifully controlled and containing animated figures which are a reminder of the importance the Leonardo attached to the significance of every gesture and movement of the human form.