226. MS M.917/945, pp. 146–149

This charming scene is easily the most cherished of all the miniatures from Catherine's prayer book. Within a domestic interior scattered with tools and utensils, the Virgin weaves, baby Jesus takes his first steps in a walker, and Joseph planes a board. The wood resembles the beam of a cross and thus alludes to Christ's forthcoming death. But for now the child offers consolation: "I am your solace" is written on the scroll Christ unfurls to his mother.