In popular folklore, Lady Befana visits all the children of Italy on the eve of the Feast of the Epiphany to fill their socks with candy and presents if they are good or a lump of coal or dark candy if they are bad. Being a good housekeeper, many say she will sweep the floor before she leaves. The child's family typically leaves a small glass of wine and a plate with a few morsels of food, often regional or local.

This folklore character comes to life in this wonderful watercolor painting by James Christensen. It is signed and dated (1986) by the artist and framed with conservation materials. It also includes an additional Christensen signature and remarque on the glass.