A skull, bone, book, lute and watch on a ledge

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.

The painting is executed on a panel comprised of a single board with a horizontal grain. There is evidence of bevelling along the upper and lower edges. There is a synthentic protective layer on the reverse. The paint layer is stable, under a varnish that has yellowed slightly with age. The paint has thinned in some areas revealing earlier compositions along the edge of the mandolin and bone. In raking light think strokes or restoration are visible and address the wood grain. Ultraviolet light reveals a few scattered areas of restoration in the background and darkest shadows. Further inspection under ultraviolet light is hindered by an opaque varnish. The painting presents well and should be hung in its present condition. The work is offered in a carved wood frame.