This depiction of the Holy Family plus St. John has many Mannerist traits: vibrant colors, exaggerated monumentality, formal complexity, and awkward composition. The figures are all massive and muscular (particularly evident in St. John's arm), then crammed together for a composition which is highly expressive, if somewhat uncomfortable. Nosadella's Mannerist disregard for the sweetness and naturalism of earlier painters is particularly evident in the figures of Mary and Jesus. In a departure from the usual handling of this scene, Mary turns her back on the viewer rather than presenting the infant, who restlessly reaches back. This posture displays the torturous knot and bright colors on her dress, very Mannerist details. In comparison, Joseph and John have very contemplative, introverted postures considering their muscularity.
