Polyptych of San Pancrazio: Predella panel
by DADDI, Bernardo, Tempera on wood, 31 x 17 cm
This panel illustrates the Nativity and the Adoration of the Shepherds. Musical jubilation is everywhere: the angels play fanfares on trumpets and pluck sweet melodies on stringed instruments, while a joyous rustic tootles his humble bagpipe. The ass and ox look on as the Virgin tenderly swaddles the Christ Child.