An early 16th Century Book Cushion

Could Aelbrecht Bouts be a conservation-conscious artist? The detail below is taken from a panel painting by the Flemish artist currently on display at LACMA, Los Angeles. The Painting was made around 1510.

 

Detail from Madonna and Child Enthroned, LACMA M. 44. 2. 5,
part of the Mr and Mrs Allan C. Balch Collection