The canvas was stretched to the painting’s full dimensions before applying size and a lead white-in-oil ground. A French artists’ supply-house label was then stamped onto the reverse:

“RE---EAUBOEUF/ Vente et/ LOCATION DU TABLEAUX/ ET DESSINS/ Rue de Verché St. Honore 5.”

In infrared light, thin lines of graphite underdrawing are detectable throughout the painting, most notably in light-colored areas, such as the bride’s dress and over the mantle. The figures, furniture, and architecture of the room were all drawn; only a few elements were painted without drawing, such as the books on the floor, spittoon, and chair at far left. Few changes are detectable between the underdrawing and the finished painting. The jug and arms of the servant girl at left shifted slightly, the chicken leg shortened, and the square, straight legs of the table were refashioned to create the distinctive shape of a Baltimore claw-and-ball table leg.