Two are shown wearing swords and in European dress. The figure on the left looks down onto the water while the one in the middle converses with a third man on the right. He wears a white turban and a curved sword or scimitar. These details suggest that he is likely to be a Turk or an Ottoman official. Compositionally the figures introduce the spectator, who seems to be sharing their viewing point on the quay, into the picture space. Their calm and contemplative mood sets the overall tone of the composition. Although the purpose of the painting is unclear, it suggests concerns with trading at a port where West meets East. The presence of the Ottoman figure hints at the trading activity around the Mediterranean at the time but also adds a touch of exoticism to the scene which would have appealed to the Dutch customers of the artist, many of whom would have been merchants with interests in the region.

Willaerts shared an interest in figure-rich waterside scenes with his father, Adam (see BHC0803). Here, however, he has transferred the setting to an imaginary Italian harbour. The artist has paid close attention to the details on the lighthouse suggesting it is specific and known to him rather than imaginary.