How do we “read” the Painting?

The following headings will give a framework for research into the content and meaning of the painting:

Artistic Style	i) Mannerist style ii) Use of mythology
Content	i) Meaning of Allegory ii) Cast of characters
Purpose	i) Who commissioned it? ii) How was it intended to be displayed?
Context	i) The Medici in Florence ii) The artist and his work iii) The relationship between artist and patron
Subtext	i) Re-evaluation of the work, drawing together all previous elements of style, content, purpose and context.