Adoration of the Shepherds with the Saints Nazario and Celso

Adoration of the Shepherds with Saints Nazario and Celso depicts the Nativity scene accompanied by the patron saints of Brescia — the third-century martyrs Nazarius and Celsus whose relics were housed in the city's cathedral. The inclusion of Brescia's patron saints grounded the universal Christian narrative of the Nativity in local devotional identity, making the altarpiece a specifically Brescian act of worship as well as a universal celebration of Christ's birth. Moretto produced numerous altarpieces incorporating the city's patron saints, creating images that simultaneously served theological and civic functions. The combination of the Nativity's tenderness with the saints' martial dignity creates characteristic compositional tension.

Moretto's nocturnal lighting effects create a contemplative atmosphere, with the Christ Child serving as the light source illuminating the surrounding figures in his characteristic cool, silvery tones.