The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

English

The painting is executed on oak panel, this is made up of two vertically joined boards. The panel has split along the panel join, this can be seen from the painted side of the work. Viewed from the reverse the panel is supported by three horizontal bars each with five accompanying keys. The panel is currently stable, however it would benefit from the join being re reset.

The painting presents very well in natural light, with all of the details of the composition seemingly well preserved. The aforementioned panel split can be seen running down the centre of the composition. There is some scattered retouching that can be seen, notably in the dark background, which has discoloured with age. There is an area of restoration to the upper right hand edge in the curtain. The whole is under a brilliant varnish.

Examination under the UV light confirms the aforementioned retouching in the backgrounds; for the most part, these follow the wood grain. There is further retouching in the curtain at upper right. The cover of the musical score at lower right also shows some restoration. There is further minor scattered retouching, most notably in the bottom left-hand corner. Overall, the details of the still life elements appear well preserved. The thickness of the varnish precludes are more in-depth examination, and may conceal older restoration. The paint is stable.