This painting is typical of Corot's late landscapes, evoking the atmosphere rather than the detail of the countryside. Collectors adored his lyrical landscapes peopled by nymphs, but throughout his career Corot also painted contemporary figures. Here he is not interested in describing the crayfisher's activity – the man plays only a minor role in the composition.

Although many aspects of his work anticipated Impressionism, Corot remained devoted to the Paris Salon and the ideals it embodied. He exhibited at the Salon for the first time in 1827 and continued to exhibit there regularly for the rest of his life. He was awarded the Legion of Honour in 1846.