The central panel of this triptych depicts the Christ Child and his mother Mary beneath a magnificent architectural setting. Music-making angels lend the scene a solemn, festive atmosphere. In the background, the view opens onto a town square—a setting that would have been familiar to contemporary viewers from their own everyday lives. By combining a worldly environment with a heavenly event, the scene was intended to feel more tangible and accessible.

The wing panels show the early Christian martyrs Catherine and Barbara. Both are dressed in elegant clothing that was fashionable at the time the painting was created, presenting them as contemporary role models.

The work is a so-called retable, a folding altarpiece. Its richly decorated interior was visible only on major feast days such as Easter or Christmas, while the altar remained closed in everyday use. The paintings on the exterior panels have not been preserved.