Vintage Repoussé The Last Supper Metal Wall Plaque

This is a large-format bas-relief wall plaque depicting 'The Last Supper,' inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's iconic masterpiece. The artwork is crafted from a thin sheet of malleable metal, likely aluminum or a silver-toned alloy, using the repoussé and chasing technique to create a high-relief dimensional effect. The central figure of Jesus is positioned beneath a radiating celestial fan-like background, with the twelve apostles arranged along the table in expressive poses. The metal exhibits a soft, satin-like luster with significant darker oxidation or 'patina' in the recessed areas, which adds depth to the figurative forms. The plaque is housed in a substantial, molded wooden frame with a high-gloss finish and a prominent grain pattern. The frame shows minor scratching and signs of age. The inclusion of the mark 'M. REGISTRADO' (Marca Registrada) suggests a mid-20th-century European origin, likely Spanish or Italian, where such religious decorative pieces were mass-produced but hand-finished. The craftsmanship displays a high level of detail in the folds of the garments and facial expressions, despite its commercial nature. Overall, the piece is in good vintage condition with no major indentations or punctures to the metal surface.

Based on my examination of this vintage metal relief, I have evaluated it as a mid-20th-century religious decorative piece. The 'M. REGISTRADO' mark confirms a Spanish or possibly Mexican origin, typically produced between 1950 and 1970 for the international Catholic giftware market. The repoussé work on the silver-toned alloy is well-executed, showing high-relief detail and appropriate age-related oxidation in the recesses that enhances the dimensionality of Leonardo's composition. The frame, while robust, shows minor surface wear consistent with a 50-year aged object. Overall, the piece is in good vintage condition. The market for mid-century religious art remains stable, though these pieces were produced in significant quantities, which limits their rarity and ceiling price. Comparables for framed metal 'Last Supper' plaques of this scale typically sell at specialty estate auctions and religious vintage boutiques for $150 to $250. The value is driven more by the decorative scale and subject matter than by individual artist signature. Significant value factors include the lack of visible punctures or thinning (common in soft metal repoussé) and the intact radiant background detail. However, this evaluation is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is necessary to verify if the metal is a silver-plated copper (which would increase value slightly) or an aluminum-based alloy. Scientific testing for silver content and a removal from the frame to check for manufacturer stamps on the reverse would be required for a definitive valuation. I cannot confirm the exact metal composition or the integrity of the board behind the metal without a hands-on assessment.