Image

Constant Nieuwenhuys-L'ultima cena, 1980

Photographer

Tom Haartsen

L'Ultima cena

1980
63,4cm
x 72,3cm
aquatint
etching
Collection Fondation Constant, NL

CID

682

Edition: 70

There are two different origin stories accompanying this painting. According to the art dealer Nico Delaive, Constant got his inspiration in 1979 when he paid Delaive a two month visit in Italy. One day, Constant saw a bridal couple sitting at a large table with guests. He later declared to Delaive that this scene had formed the basis for the painting.

Constant has also stated that the title of the painting refers to the dinner at the promotion of Fanny Kelk’s son Constantijn in 1978. Fanny Kelk, Constant’s lover and muze, is portrayed as the pink figure in the center of the painting seen from behind. One month after the dinner took place, Fanny passed away.

As with most ideas the two inspirations merged together in the painting.

 

English title

Last Supper

Frame dimensions

nee