The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is dirty and under a thick layer of varnish. There is abrasion apparent in the black and darker brown pigments used. There are several small old, restored damages visible to the naked eye. The majority of these are in the area above the boys heads. The most notable of these are four old tears which surround the right hand boy's head and range from 8 by 3cm to 4 by 1 cm. in size. The retouchings to these areas have become discoloured and show a tendency to flaking. There are also five minor patches of paint loss across the left hand boy's left leg. Inspection under UV light, though impeded by the varnish, confirms the retouchings to the aforementioned areas, and the scattered retouchings to other smaller damages in the background. It further reveals some fairly extensive retouchings and strengthenings to the boys in the foreground and the basket to the left. Bar some heavy retouchings to his neck and his right hand leg, the boy on the right hand side does remain largely untouched. Offered in a black and parcel gilt slip frame in good 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."

After the original in the Alte Pinakothek, Munich (inv. no. 605).