The actual paintings are slightly warmer in tone than the catalogue illustrations suggest. The recto and the verso are both very well preserved and show great detail. The recto shows a few vertical cracks, mainly down the centre and one small repaired damage upper right. The verso has one small repaired damage along the left edge and one near Christ's feet. Both sides are under a fine layer of dirt and disoloured varnish. Inspection under UV light reveals retouchings in the recto along the cracks, in the lower left corner, in Joseph's face and in the angels to the left. In the verso UV reveals minor retouchings in the figures, e.g. Christ, and the right figure, and some newer retouching in the lower left corner, but is furthermore impeded by the varnish layer. Offered in a black painted frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The composition of the recto is based on Dürer's woodcut of 1511 (see G.M. Fara, Albrecht Dürer. Originali, Copie, Derivazioni, Florence 2007, pp. 316-8, no. 96q) and that of the verso is derived from Martin Schongauer print (see The Illustrated Bartsch, vol. VI𒅌II, New York 1980, no. 130, plate 24).