Focus on this artwork and explain the Description.
The monumental composition is taken directly from the tradition of Holy Conversations in the Venetian School, inaugurated by Antonello da Messina's San Cassiano Altarpiece. It shows the Madonna and Child on a high throne, with two angels holding the crown (a 15th-century Flemish painting element also in use in Italy). In the lower part are four saints: Stephen, John the Evangelist, Simon the Zealot and Lawrence. Simon is holding the halberd which gives its name to the altarpiece. At the sides of the throne, between columns and draperies, are two sections of sky with clouds.
As in other paintings by Lotto, the symmetry is broken by the variety of postures and gestures. The work is characterized by a certain archaic style, explainable by the relatively provincial commissioners and the late stage of his career.
Holy Conversation Italy Antonello da Messina San Cassiano Altarpiece Flemish painting halberd Simon the Zealot Lawrence Venetian School