Attributed to Juan Alonso de Villabrille y Ron (1663-1728) Spanish, early 18th century

the silver monstrance inscribed: CHA / RI / TAS, the mother of pearl plaque inscribed: S^{N FrANC. de PAULA}

Overall the condition of the figure is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. Much of the proper left foot is lost. The hands are probably reattached. There are some losses to the polychromy, in particular to the forehead and to the tops of the folds of the drapery at the front where there are some chips. In other areas the gilding has worn away revealing the red ground, particularly to the folds at the back. There is a chip and fissure to the polychromy at the top of the hood. Some of the polychromy may be refreshed. There are a few minor splits to the figure and base consistent with the material.
"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."

This fine carved wood figure betrays the realism and pathos which is synonymous with Spanish 17th and 18th century sculpture. The expressive facial type is very close to that of the Head of St Paul by Juan Alonso de Villabrille y Ron in the Museo Nacional de Escultura, Valladolid (inv. no. CE0572), which dates to 1707. The way in which the long beard sits on the face and chest is comparable to Villabrille's St Joachim (CE0971), also in the Museo Nacional, and his Prophet Elijah in the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin (inv. no. NGI.8031).