The Birth and Naming of Saint John the Baptist. Artist: Sano di Pietro (Ansano di Pietro di Mencio) (Italian, Siena 1405-1481 Siena). Dimensions: Overall, with engaged (modern) frame, 9 5/8 x 18 7/8 in. (24.4 x 47.9 cm); painted surface 8 1/8 x 16 7/8 in. (20.6 x 42.9 cm). Date: 1450-60.This panel combines two episodes: the birth of Saint John the Baptist and his naming by his father, Zacharias, portrayed writing in the foreground. Behind him, framed by delicate colonnettes, is Elizabeth, the cousin of the Virgin Mary, who reclines in bed, having just given birth to Saint John. Although the original location of the present painting is unknown, and it cannot be associated with any other known panels, it is likely that it formed part of a predella that portrayed scenes of the Life of Saint John the Baptist. Sano di Pietro's panel was inspired by Ambrogio Lorenzetti's fresco depicting the Birth of the Virgin (façade of the Spedale della Scala). Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York