Although in a damaged condition, enough of this picture remains legible, to suggest not only that it is likely to be by Bernardino de’Conti, as a strong influence of Leonardo da Vinci is visible, especially in the profile of the Virgin, which is based on Leonardo’s Madonna Litta, in the Hermitage, St. Petersburg. It is generally accepted that Leonardo’s Madonna Litta itself, while not unanimously attributed to the artist, was painted in Milan c1490, when it became immediately influential.  Various versions and derivations are associated with Bernardino de’Conti, and also with anonymous artists, such as the example in the Museo Poldi-Pezzoli in Milan. The artist has softened Leonardo’s linear approach and given it a sweetness all of its own.

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