In a complex of buildings, which appears to be a palace, a great feast is being held. In the foreground, seven boys are walking with lanterns on sticks. Nearly all of these take the forms of realistic fish. One boy, at the far right, carries a fantastic dragon-like fish lantern. In China the fish symbolizes the desire for abundance, since the words "fish" and "abundance" sound the same in Chinese. Thus feasts are, above all, occasions for showing or wishing for abundance or plenty. While the boys dance to the music of an orchestra of percussion instruments, six gentlemen in the background are enjoying a meal. The man at the far left is responsible for the big fireworks for the feast. Several bundles of fireworks, ready to set off, lie in front of him on the table.