Page 354 - Manifest September 2024

Krishen

Khanna’s

Biblical Fables

The Biblical theme plays a significant role in Krishen
Khanna’s body of work, a fascination that began in his
childhood when his father gave him a reproduction
of Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’. Captivated by
the image, Khanna spent hours sketching it, sparking
a lifelong interest in Christian imagery. This theme
is central to his artistic exploration, and many of his
works reflect this influence.
A recurring subject in Khanna’s paintings is the
supper at Emmaus, which occurred on the evening
of Christ’s resurrection. The depicted scene captures
the moment when two disciples, Cleopas and another
unnamed follower, were discussing the recent events
surrounding Jesus’s empty tomb. While walking, they
met a stranger who inquired about their conversation,
and later, the group gathered to share a meal in
Emmaus. Khanna’s portrayal of this Biblical event
is both profound and reflective, illustrating his deep
engagement with Christian themes.