Nicolas Poussin

Nicolas Poussin's paintings arrange biblical and classical stories through carefully placed figures, gestures, and landscapes. Working mainly in Rome, he made easel pictures for patrons interested in history and literature. His first Seven Sacraments series, commissioned by Cassiano dal Pozzo, represents Catholic rites through historical narratives. Eucharist sets Christ and the disciples around a candlelit Last Supper, using architecture and the rhythm of hands to organize the scene.