The Circumcision

The picture was produced in Bellini's workshop and follows a cartoon by the master. In the most distinguished example of the composition, in the National Gallery, London, the figures are shown with slight variations against a dark, neutral background instead of a landscape. The present picture has been attributed to Vincenzo Catena, but the resemblances to his work are superficial. The picture has been badly overcleaned. In consequence, the forms look schematic.