This late work by Veronese reflects the transformations experienced by Venetian religious painting around 1575, when they were subject to control by the Inquisition. Veronese adapted his style to meet these demands, and in his late works we can see a progressive simplification of the compositions, a darkening palette of colors, and the use of a sketchier brushstroke. The result is images of concentrated emotion, stripped of details that could distract the faithful.

This work was acquired by Luis de Haro upon the death of Charles I of England. In Spain it first appeared in the inventory of Isabel de Farnesio (1692-1766) at the La Granja Palace in 1746, where it remained until 1814.