Mary is central on this altarpiece, seated on a throne and nursing Jesus while being surrounded by angels singing and making music. Art depicting Mary nursing Jesus is known as "Madonna Lactans," and is a common type of early Christian art. This imagery symbolizes the humanity of Jesus and Mary's role as Theokotos, the Mother of God. The top section of the altarpiece features four female saints. Agatha is depicted on the top left, holding her breasts on a plate in her left hand and a palm branch and shears in her right hand. It is thought the next figure is Barbara, who is often shown with a tower. Lucy is standing, holding a lamp in her left hand. Agnes stands holding the leash of a lamb with her left hand and a book in her right. More information about these women can be found on their collection pages.