Reading
Two hands and a set of keys
Start with the open square. Follow the lines of the paving towards the central building, then return to the two figures in the foreground. Christ stands on the left of the exchange. Peter kneels to receive the keys. Their hands explain the subject even at a distance.
A second way into a picture
In Leonardo’s Last Supper, the edge of the table runs almost the full width of the wall. Find Christ at its centre and follow the hands of the diners on either side. Here a shared reaction gives the scene its subject. There is no need to identify every face before you can read the event.
Key takeaway
Follow the exchange between figures before consulting the title.
Visual study
Christ stands to the left of the kneeling Peter. The large keys connect their hands above the patterned pavement.
Pietro Perugino · Sistine Chapel, VaticanGroups of diners turn and gesture around Christ. The lines of the ceiling converge near his head.
Leonardo da Vinci · Santa Maria delle Grazie, MilanFurther works on this theme
Ten modules to mastery
You are in Module A — foundations. Each lettered module deepens one layer of apostolic iconography until you reach final assessment.
How to read an apostle
Peter and Andrew
James and the pilgrims to Compostela
John the Evangelist
Andrew, Thomas and Philip
Matthew and James the Less
Bartholomew, Simon, Jude and Matthias
Comparing possible identifications
Reading an unfamiliar work
The final catalogue exercise
A meal, a gathering and a call
Groups of diners turn and gesture around Christ. The lines of the ceiling converge near his head.
Leonardo da Vinci · Santa Maria delle Grazie, MilanThe gathered figures fit beneath an architectural frame. Look above their haloes for the signs of the descending Spirit.
Duccio di Buoninsegna · Maestà, SienaTwo men kneel before Christ in the foreground. The lake behind them joins several moments of the fishermen’s story.
Domenico Ghirlandaio · Sistine Chapel, Vatican