Mary with Child and the Trinity, Archangels and Saints, predella – The Last Supper, Christ on the Mt. of Olives, Whipping Luca Signorelli (c.1445-1523)

The composition unfolds as a continuous narrative across three distinct scenes, united by a shared stylistic approach and color palette. The leftmost panel presents a gathering around a long table laden with food and drink. Christ, centrally positioned, gestures towards the bread and wine, establishing a moment of solemnity amidst the assembled figures. Their expressions are varied – some appear contemplative, others engaged in conversation, creating an atmosphere of both intimacy and anticipation. The perspective is somewhat flattened, typical of early Renaissance depictions, which emphasizes the arrangement of individuals over spatial depth.
The central panel shifts to a landscape setting. Christ stands on a hillside, seemingly addressing a large group of onlookers. A kneeling figure prostrates himself before him, suggesting reverence or supplication. Behind them, a multitude of figures are arranged in tiers, their scale diminishing with distance, further emphasizing the hierarchical nature of the scene. The background features a detailed rendering of foliage and architectural elements, contributing to a sense of expansive space.
The rightmost panel depicts a brutal act of violence – the scourging of Christ. A group of men inflict punishment upon him, while onlookers observe with varying degrees of emotion. The figures are rendered with anatomical precision, highlighting the physical suffering being endured. The stark contrast between light and shadow intensifies the drama and underscores the gravity of the event.
The overall effect is one of sequential storytelling, guiding the viewer through a series of pivotal moments. The consistent use of color – earthy tones punctuated by vibrant reds and blues – unifies the disparate scenes. The narrative progression suggests themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and divine authority. The inclusion of numerous figures in each panel implies a broader commentary on human nature and its relationship to the sacred. The meticulous detail given to clothing and facial expressions indicates an intention to convey not only the events themselves but also the emotional weight they carry for those involved.