Painting depicting Exodus 32, 1–20. In a clearing framed with feathery trees the Israelite people are worshipping a small golden calf set on top of a carved column. To the left of the column is a gilt altar on which burns a small fire. By the altar stands a bearded gentleman in flowing robes. This is Aaron, who gestures towards the calf and altar, showing them to the people. The Israelites, also dressed in flowing robes, are positioned in a ring around the column. Some to the right are holding hands and dancing, some hold up their hands in gestures of supplication, and some simply stare at the calf. Beyond the scene the forest extends away to mountains in the distance. In the centre left foreground a woman points out the calf to her daughter, and to the right of them a man has his arm around his son as they regard the calf together.