New Evidence in Da Vinci's Last Supper

One of the most famous works of art in the history of the world, Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper has been the focus of much debate.  Whether it is about da Vinci's technique, the need to for extensive restoration, or its evidence of the existence of a secret church sect intent on keeping Christianity a misogynistic patriarchy, scholars and artists thought they had figured out at least one thing: the identity of Judas, but now that is in question.

Art historians for years believed that Judas Iscariot was pictured on the left hand side of the table, to Jesus' right side, depicted as the man who is sharing the same food bowl with Jesus.  For Jesus did say, "And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me."

Betrayal of Jesus highlighted in yellow

So, identity solved, right?  Not so fast.  Recent advances in chromospectronomy, Q-tips, and Formula 409 (recognized by the Louvre as the only way to gets stains off of paintings) have led to more conservation and restoration of the da Vinci's famous fresco.  Below you see the unrestored image of a man to Jesus' left.

Before restoration

For years, this figure, pointing upwards or perhaps signalling the number one for "one more bottle of wine for the table", has been known as "Mr. Pointy" or "Bob Ross."  But after extensive cleaning and restoration, we are finally revealed the true image made by the Renaissance master.

After restoration (the bird-flipping highlighted in yellow)

And you can now clearly see, that this figure is neither pointing to the ceiling or signalling for one more bottle of wine.  Clearly, he is flipping Jesus the bird, his middle finger extended in derision, presaging his betrayal of Jesus.  It is still unclear as to whether Judas insulted Jesus, feigned that he was not heard and then offered to "turn the volume up," or if he fished around his robes pockets, telling Jesus he had something for him, only to take his hand out of his robe pocket with his middle finger extended, or if just flipped off Jesus, shouting, "Screw, you, J, I'm outta here.  I needs to get me some silver up in this joint."  Obviously, historians, art specialists, and Bible scholars will have to get back to us on the details of potentially lost or hidden Bible verses that would explain the insult.  Ink Puddle Art Blog will keep you informed and up to date on further developments.