The painting in question is believed to have been created by an artist with some formal training, evident from the proper priming technique used on the canvas. However, the work is considered quite ordinary, lacking in dynamic lighting effects. Its significance lies in the possibility that it may be the only portrait of Shakespeare created from life, providing a glimpse of what the playwright actually looked like, assuming the identification is correct.

Bill Bryson, in his book "Shakespeare: The World as Stage," emphasizes the importance of this portrait amid ongoing debates about Shakespeare's appearance. If validated as a true likeness of Shakespeare, it would hold immense value, offering a rare connection to the iconic playwright's physical representation, something that is largely unknown in historical records.