Rest during the Flight into Egypt

This is the central scene of the predella on the large altarpiece Adoration of the Magi.

Gentile’s skill, for which he was highly regarded, is evident in this central predella scene of the Flight into Egypt, depicting Joseph leading Mary and the Christ Child. In this scene, Gentile includes figures, animals, and what is perhaps most extraordinary for the time, a vast landscape. In addition to the rocky low hills which frame the central figures, the landscape convincingly opens out on either side revealing broad vistas. On the right is a portrait of a walled hill-town.