This painting fits comfortably into the tradition of 17th century Dutch architectural painting representing the fantastical interiors of fine palaces, a genre which Van Delen made his own.
However, the apparent simplicity of this scene is purely superficial. The size of the two large pillars which taper towards the top is implausible. The way in which the different spaces fit together with the suggestion that other unknown spaces exist conveyed by details such as the open door on the extreme left and emphasized by the interplay of light and shade is extremely complex.
The cracks in the upper part of the central column are perhaps simply designed to demonstrate the artist’s virtuosity, but are more probably intended to give the scene the appearance of a vanitas. The rather unsculptural pose of the triton and siren holding the cartouche are also of note.
