Peter's Adoration of the Shepherds by John of Ambrose

The work of Pietro di Giovanni d'Ambrogio (Siena 1410-1449), a painter likely trained by Sassetta, presents a more personal interpretation of reality, influenced by Masaccio, Paolo Uccello, and Domenico Veneziano. The composition of the painting, originating from the Church of Sant'Agostino in Asciano, features Saint Augustine on the left, dressed as a bishop, and Galgano Guidotti, the knight saint, on the right. The central landscape is rich in detail, with hills resembling the Crete Senesi, birds, and an owl, which is a symbol of the Passion of Christ. The Baby Jesus is attributed symbols of purity (rock crystal), but also protection and a reference to the Passion (coral). Finally, the exquisitely crafted woodwork above the painting was once decorated with madder lacquer and gold and silver leaf.