The motif of the garland as well as the frieze-like grouping of figures derives from reliefs on sarcophagi from antiquity. Depicted from a slightly lower perspective, it would suggest that the painting was made to be hung in an elevated position, possibly as a supraporte. Three highly specialised painters worked together on this work: Rubens executed the figures, Jan Wildens added the landscape and Frans Snyders incorporated the opulent garland of fruit. Finally, Rubens added several finishing touches to the figures.