PROVENANCE: Private Collection, Cologne; Kleinberger Gallery, New York City, noted in 1929; Siegfried F. Aram, 1959; BJU, 1959.

This painting is considered this unknown artist's best and most characteristic work. The designation "Master of the Greenville Tondo" brings honor and recognition to the city of Greenville throughout the world. Because of the quality of the workmanship, scholars have suggested attributions such as Perugino, Raphael, or another student in Perugino's workshop.

Early Renaissance paintings such as this one were created to reverently adorn private homes. The church was no longer the sole commissioner for works of art; wealthy individuals now commissioned works such as this to beautify their homes.