The painting is redder in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The support is made up of a single flat panel. Recto: The paint surface is secure, if dirty. The paint has become sunken in some of the darker tones, for example in the shepherds centre right and in some areas lower right, though to the naked eye appears better preserved in the lighter shades. Inspection under UV light reveals scattered strengthenings here and there, along the craquelure, and in more concentrated areas such as Joseph's face, which is mostly reconstructed, and in the cloak of the furtherest angel to the left. Some more structural retouchings to replace paint loss occur in an area upper centre around the angels and in the archway, and in the background upper right. Further retouchings can be found around the figure of Joseph. There may well be further older retouchings but the varnish does not allow satisfactory inspection. Verso: The verso is in a similar condition. Large passages remain in good original condition under the yellowed varnish, but some areas of concentrated retouching and strengthening can be found in the background, centre left and lower centre, in some areas of the wings, the cloak and in and around the face. Offered in a modern reproduction carved, painted gold, wooden frame in fair condition.
"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."