The character and lighting of this peaceful scene was directly inspired by the landscape and architecture of the Roman countryside. The figures, including the mother and child in the foreground, the fisherman by the lake and those in the boat beyond, encourage exploration of the picture space, providing accents of colour and light but taking on a purely visual rather than narrative role. They contribute to the overall harmony of the composition which fulfils the classical ideal in its careful balance and structure. It is considered to be a late work by the artist.