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.

This canvas has a wax lining and is secure on a keyed strainer. The lining canvas is visible along the lateral edges of the painting when unframed, and some pooled wax from the lining process is apparent. A handful of pinprick losses are visible across the canvas, the largest of which is in the right side of Francis’s hood, and measures 0.5 x 0.25 centimeters. In the thinly painted areas of the skull at lower right and in Francis’s cloak, a pencil grid is visible beneath the painted surface. Under ultraviolet light, some pigments in the darkest areas of the composition fluoresce. The painting presents well and may be hung in its current state.