Annunciation and Nativity (Altarpiece of Observation)
by COSSA, Francesco del, Tempera on panel, 137 x 113 cm, and 26,5 x 114,5 cm
The main panel and the predella formed the altarpiece of the church of Observation in Bologna. At both sides of the predella there were two small paintings representing St Clare and St Catherine of Alexandria, presently both in the Thyssen collection in Madrid.
The altarpiece was attributed to Mantegna until the end of the 19th century.
Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 22 minutes):
Thomas Tallis: Mass (Puer natus est)