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.

We have sought to record changes to the condition of this piece acquired after its initial manufacture.
- There are minor splits on the silk mounts where they meet the upper staves on both scrolls.
- On the left hand scroll there are two splits, measuring max. approx. 10.6 and 9.2 cm. On the right hand scroll there is a single split at the join between the mount and the stave, measuring max. approx. 9.7 cm.
- There are slight creases to the paper of both scrolls consistent with age.
- There is a small area of discolouration to the paper in the upper left of the left hand scroll in the couplet.
- On the lower right edge of the right hand scroll there is a small loss measuring max. approx. 3.5 cm by 0.1 cm.
- Labels from the Wenwu Shangdian on both scrolls identify this couplet as a copy after Duan Yucai. After examination of both scrolls in person Christie's Chinese Painting Specialists believe that this is a genuine work by the hand of the artist.