The actual painting is more red in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a stiff relining and is uneven. The paint surface is under a fine layer of dirt and extremely dirty varnish layer, which would benefit from cleaning. One repaired damage can be seen in the book, and there is a small repaired paintloss in the bookstand. Along the edges, some tiny losses can be seen as well. Inspection under UV light reveals retouchings in his left hand, in the face and forehead and fruit upper left, as well as along the edges. Small scattered ones can be seen in the background. Offered in a modern gilt frame, a few chips.
"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."

A seventeenth century copy after the original by Reymerswaele, listed by Friedländer as 'Present location unknown' (see M. J. Friedländer, Early Netherlandish Painting, vol. XII, p. 107, cat. no. 166, reproduced plate 93).