My visit to the Cenacoli in Florence continues.
In the Basilica of Santa Croce, here are the third and fourth Cenacles, after those, already visited and posted on the blog, by Andrea del Sarto and Andrea del Castagno.
Jesus A Tavola – at the table – with his friends.
Tree of Life and Last Supper by Taddeo Gaddi – 1345 -1350
I would like to focus on the expression “A Tavola”.
In the Italian language, the table is a piece of furniture or work furniture. The moment a tablecloth is placed on the “table” and it is set for the meal, it becomes Tavola. The tavola is therefore a laid table, ready to welcome family and friends for sharing.
not only food is shared, but also conversation: it is a moment of reunion in which anything can happen – history tells us this, the narrative of the great royal banquets tells us this – even betrayal.
Giovanni – John – leaning on Jesus. This is one of the cenacles that inspired Leonardo da Vinci.
The scene of the Last Supper is under the Tree of Life. At the foot of the tree there is Saint Francis; on both sides, scenes related to food and the friars’ table.
Ultima Cena – Last Supper – by Giorgio Vasari – 1546
The Last Supper by Giorgio Vasari immediately illuminates those who enter the refectory of the Franciscan monastery of Santa Croce, with its colors, vivid expressions, faces and figures almost carved on the canvas.
It is located on the right wall, near the entrance.
The Last Supper by Taddeo Gaddi is located opposite, at the end of the room.
Giovanni – John – leaning on the breast of Jesus
John was the favorite disciple and was often portrayed with a sweet and delicate appearance and embracing Jesus.
La Tavola: Communion and Sharing.