This oil painting dates from around 1640 and was bequeathed to the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in 1948 by GH Smyth. 

The first job of the paintings conservator was to examine the painting carefully and carry out surface cleaning.

At this time tests were carried out on removing small patches of varnish and a layer of aged darkened varnish was removed.

Once this had been completed it was possible to see more clearly the old damage on the picture.

A disfiguring tear on the cheek and neck was covered and old conservation work was removed. The painting was then revarnished and the paint retouched.

The frame was also cleaned and any damage corrected.

This work took many weeks to complete and every stage was carefully recorded to assist any future conservation work.