Looking at early nativity scenes and their symbolism.
This one is from the Bergognone, a contemporary of Leonardo da Vinci.
I am intrigued by the half rotten apple and the ” vitarca mudra” the Madonna is forming with her hands. Its a symbol of the mind first laying attention to an object – or energy becoming matter. This mudra can be seen in man Buddhist paintings and artwork
Bergognone, Ambrogio (c. 1500) Virgin of the Veil; Milan
The Living Room 
Mary appears to be holding a veil between her fingers… the edges are just visible in her left hand
Yes, its interesting. I know of another Bergognone Madonna with the same gesture. She’s holding something in her hand…but its also a symbol. I must look for it. Forgot that I posted all those nativities last year…