Description
Botticelli's composition is unusual in two respects: canvas paintings were still rare at this time, and the Christ Child was rarely shown asleep. This variation could be interpreted as a reminder of the death of Christ. His future suffering for humanity can also be symbolized by the detailed plants and fruits. Red strawberries, for example, may refer to the blood of Christ. They also complement the beautiful bower of roses that forms an 'enclosed garden', a symbol of the Virgin derived from the Old Testament song of Solomon.