This work was painted for the high altar of the Oratory of the Conception, Ferrara (attached to the church of S. Francesco) & was probably commissioned by Carlo & Camillo Strozzi. A lunette of the Pietà (Ferrara, private collection) has been associated with it. Narratives generally shown on the the lower edge of a large altarpiece, or 'predella', are here represented on the plinth of the throne. Unusually, they read from right to left, beginning with the Nativity & concluding with Christ among the Doctors. The Virgin was identified as the second Eve, through whom mankind would be saved, which is symbolised by the presence of Adam & Eve below her feet. The paintings beside the arch show the Sacrifice of Isaac & probably Esther before Ahaseurus. These Old Testament episodes were believed to foreshadow Christ's sacrifice & the exceptional purity of the Virgin.