Charles Gleyre was known as an artist of classic methods but romantic tastes who often modified heroism into idyllic scenes.

However, in execution he was not considered romantic, due to his use of pale colors, his delicate drawing style, and uncertain light.

In 1865 William T. Walters would commission a replica of the painting which was completed by Gleyre and Dussart and is now also known as Lost Illusions.

In the scene, an aging poet watches as a mysterious "bark" drifts away with his youthful illusions.

A reproduction of the painting, the original of which is part of the Walters Art Museum collection, was displayed through January 2014 in O'Donnell Square.