The “Virgin and Child with Saints John the Baptist, Contardo of Este and Lucy” (Modena, Galleria Estense) is an oil on canvas bearing, on the bottom left, date and signature of the artist: MDXXXII / Benvenuto ferrariensis and the symble of a carnation. As the title explains, in the middle it stands St. Contardo of Este, looking at the Virgin. Contardo was the only member of Este family who had been sanctified, hence he became object of devotion. Critics maintain that there is a perfect balance between Raphael-inspired classicism of Garofalo's first works and his later re-interpretation, more refined and elevated, that recalls Girolamo Carpi and Giulio Romano.

Copyrighted image:  "Under concession of the Ministry of Cultural Activities, Heritage and Tourism – Photographic Archive of Gallerie Estensi”