Supper at Emmaus

Supper at Emmaus is an artwork created by Baroque artist Caravaggio (his full name is Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio).

Caravaggio lived from 1571 to 1610 and was born in Milan Italy.

He worked throughout Rome, Sicily, Naples and Malta. His career took place during a turning point in the history of the art world, and his paintings continue to attract attention till this day.

This particular artwork is an oil and tempera piece that was painted on canvas, and is a historical painting that showcases a biblical story. The painting was commissioned by Ciriaco Mattei and it was created sometime between 1601 to 1602.

The painting itself depicts a popular theme in the Christian art world, which is the "Supper at Emmaus" where Christ reveals himself to two apostles after the crucifixion. The two disciples that people presume to be in the painting are Cleopas and Luke.

Christ appears in the center of the painting, while to the right of the frame Cleopas appears with his arms flailed out in amazement and shock.

To the left of the painting appears the apostle Luke. The man that is standing appears to be oblivious to the magnitude of the event that is currently taking place.

Caravaggio chose to show a particular moment of this biblical story, which was the moment that the two apostles realise that the guest they have invited to their home was indeed the resurrected Christ.

The artwork captures this moment and allows us to experience the apostle's reaction to their realization that they have witnessed a miracle.

The artwork is currently on display at the National Gallery in London.

Although Caravaggio had a turbulent and violent life, his influence on the art world can be felt and the "Supper of Emmaus" is an example of his ability to express realism in his paintings.