Circle of Philippe Hodart (c. 1490- after 1536), Franco-Iberian, 16th century

There is stable splitting visible throughout the surface of the figure including an open split to the left side of the neck. There is a knot between the knees. The arms were carved separately and are attached at the elbows. Section were inserted under the proper left arm and to the drapery on the proper left side of the figure. There are losses to the fingers and a section of the underside was cut down. There is a metal hook for mounting inserted at the reverse. Otherwise the condition of the wood is stable. There is some worming to the base but overall its condition is good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Philippe Hodart made an important contribution to Renaissance sculpture on the Iberian Peninsula by producing Italianate works for religious centres such as the Santo Domingo de la Calzada cathedral near Burgos and the Santa Cruz Monastery in Coimbra. The contract for the latter commission tells us he was a Frenchman. The seated terracotta figures from the Last Supper he created in Coimbra resemble the present sculpture's pose, airy angular drapery as well as the distinctive arrangement of the hair.

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Gersão de Alarcão, 'Knowing Hodart and his work. The conservation-resotration of the Last Supper', E-conservation magazine, 11, 2009, pp. 55-66