An early attribution to Leonardo explains why – at 1,500 florins – this was the most expensive of the 72 paintings purchased by Charles II from the Breda art dealer William Frizell. While the composition of the reunited infant Christ and St John embracing was the invention of Leonardo, this version is believed to be the work of Marco d'Oggiono, a member of his circle in Milan.

Acquired by Charles II from William Frizell, 1660.

Cat. 132