Kate Lowry has noted: Original linen canvas, simple weave, about 15 threads per sq cm. Cusping is clearly visible at top and bottom edges, but not noticeable left and right edges, suggesting they have been slightly trimmed, possibly due to damages at these margins. All turnover edges removed at time of lining. Other damages to original canvas: two tears visible centre right of head in sky, one tear centre left of sleeve in foliage as well as several small holes, two in background, one in boy's leg and seven in the apples. Relined onto a simple weave canvas, slightly coarser than original, which appears to be previously painted. Four-member pine stretcher probably dates from relining. A smooth even preparation, white in colour, overlays an initial preparation of grey-brown with an intermediate glue size layer. The distribution pattern of the ground shown in X-ray suggests it was applied to the canvas after stretching. X-ray image suggests the boy may have originally been wearing a cap. The IR image shows a curved line passing through his hand - possibly part of a toy. The IR image and X-ray show a pentiment to the top of the sitter's left shoulder and the shadow around the shoulder area. GC-MS analysis of paint indicates the use of a slightly heat-bodied linseed oil medium containing traces of pine and triterpenoid resins. Widespread mature cracks.