This is a very strange little picture and for some, perhaps, not very attractive. It is not well drawn or painted and the blue paint is flaking off in places although it is not old. The figures of the disciples are roughly drawn and the two figures in the front are placed with their feet dangling a little foolishly as they perch on the edge of their respective benches. There are other scenes of the Last Supper in the Compendium rather more finely painted, and there are other icons of this style executed with greater dignity and care. So why has this depiction been chosen? It is intriguing that such a poor, strange painting should be used for a Compendium for the universal Church. It must be a painting with such value for us that despite its ‘poverty’ it is presented to the whole Church for enlightening our faith, and to shed light especially on Part Three, our life in Christ.
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