Raphaël Mouterde

Reedsy Review: 4 stars Loved it! Art observers admire narratives, brushwork, and emotion. Mouterde helps unveil another layer with Da Vinci's mathematical artistry. In The Geometry of the Last Supper, readers are guided through the mathematical intricacies of one of history's most iconic paintings. While many observers appreciate artwork for it's narratives, brushwork, and emotional resonance, Mouterde's book helps take an additional step. The reader will delve into the mathematical tapestry that Da Vinci skillfully wove into his work. Beyond a cursory glance, Mouterde presents readers with an opportunity to explore the hidden world of geometry that influenced Da Vinci's creative process. Through the pages, the book offers a compelling journey, unlocking the mysteries of lines, shapes, and proportions that shaped "The Last Supper." Yet, "The Geometry of the Last Supper" transcends its mathematical revelations. Mouterde delves even deeper, illuminating the potential symbolism and profound depths woven within Da Vinci's composition. Much like Da Vinci, the polymath who skillfully harnessed diverse disciplines to shape his art, this book invites readers to explore beyond the surface. It offers a window into Da Vinci's mind, revealing the layers of technical mastery and poetic insight that breathe life into his work. By doing so, readers are guided to experience art not as a mere visual spectacle, but as a tapestry interwoven with intellectual and spiritual significance. Learn of perspective, Pythagoras, the golden number, and how they are manifested in the work of Da Vinci. Being a quintessential Renaissance man, Da Vinci undoubtedly placed many layers of meaning within his works. As Mouterde said, "not only does the geometry develop into a gracefully balanced structure, but it also remains hidden, suffusing the work with profound meaning in consonance with the greater significance of the painting." In essence, "The Geometry of the Last Supper" becomes a guide to transcending the two-dimensional observation, embarking on a deeper expedition that captivates both the art admirers and the math nerds.