The painting shows a small child handing a ring to a young woman. The ring is a clear indication of the woman’s identity: she is St Catherine, an early Christian martyr. In a vision, Jesus appeared and wed her by placing on her finger a ring symbolising her devotion to Christ.

Johann Michael Rottmayr painted the scene around 1710 for the private chapel of Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton Harrach. In the centre, wrapped only in a cloth, is the Christ-child, lovingly held by his mother Mary. Catherine looks up at him expectantly, holding up her right hand to receive the ring.

In the background, the bearded Joseph watches over his family. In front, the child John the Baptist observes the scene. Appearing among the clouds above are God the Father and the Holy Spirit as a dove. The impressive colour composition of the painting shows to good effect, even in the windowless room.