Ovid’s tales about metamorphoses were wildly popular. This painting depicts the story of Vertumnus, god of the seasons, who was madly in love with Pomona, goddess of gardens, who was interested solely in gardening. Disguised as a wise, old woman, Vertumnus praised his own virtues, and won Pomona’s heart with the following metaphor: just as the vine relies on the support of the elm, so everyone requires a mate.