拍品的状况可能存在极大差异，而由于其性质使然，拍品难以处于完美无瑕的状态。拍品均以拍卖时的状况出售。

This painting is executed on canvas that has been supported on the reverse by a glue lining. The painting is stable, although slightly uneven on its support. The paint layer is stable, although slightly dirty, and has an uneven craquelure across the surface. Frame abrasion is visible at the extreme edges, but this is usually hidden by the rabbet of the frame. There is a small area of loss at left, as visible in the catalogue image. Old repairs to the skull, book, ledge and background have discolored with age. These repairs fluoresce in ultraviolet light. Further inspection with a UV lamp is hindered by an opaque varnish. The painting presents well and is offered in a painted wood frame.