The dense opaque areas visible in the x-ray in the centre are from dark paint, probably black lead, which is skimmed over the wood grain on the reverse. These obscure some of the detail on the paint surface, but the considerable areas of paint loss are clearly evident. The condition of the paint surface can be seen in the photograph taken in raking light on the right, as can the repaired split in the panel that runs through the face.

© National Portrait Gallery, London