The central figure of the Virgin Mary, kneeling in adoration of the Christ Child, derives from a compositional type invented by Filippino Lippi's father, Filippo Lippi. Filippino elaborated the theme by including the seated figure of Joseph and two angels who hold up Mary's mantle. This unusual gesture emphasises the linear patterns made by the drapery folds. The influence of Netherlandish painting is evident in the turreted towers and landscape background. The proportions of this small panel suggest that it was originally painted as part of a predella for an altarpiece.