Both prints were made by Laurent de la Hire, a French artist who concentrated on mythological and religious subjects. Although the landscapes here are similar, the atmosphere is different. On the left, Narcissus looks at his reflection in a relaxed, almost nonchalant manner. In the print on the right, which is from a later date, there is no longer any question of tranquillity: Narcissus is startled by the confrontation with himself. His dog sleeps on unperturbed in both prints.