The painting was examined at the Hamilton Kerr Institute in April 1984 in order to study and describe the picture's creation and the materials used. Cross-sectional and microchemical examination, electron microprobe, thin-layer chromatography (on red lakes), x-radiography and infra-red reflectography were techniques employed. From a study of the canvas and 16th-century loom widths it was determined that only a few centimeters may be missing, in contrast to earlier catalogue references. A white gypsum ground was used. Dark, broad brush strokes of underdrawing are visible. Titian's changes and painting techniques are described. There is a dirt film between pigment layers, perhaps explained by his practice of turning pictures to the wall for several months while in progress. The painting was in his studio for three years. -- AATA