This work, together with 'A Mythological Figure', is thought to have been painted for the sides of a chest or 'cassone' as companion picture to a painting now in Amiens.

This painting may depict the moment when Jupiter approaches the chaste nymph Callisto disguised as Diana in order to gain her trust.

On discovering her pregnancy by Jupiter, Diana punished Callisto by changing her into a bear and then setting her dogs onto her.