The painting gives an impression of the tribute paid to the artist on his return to Denmark. More than 40 years had passed since Thorvaldsen – a young, unknown artist from a poor background – in 1797 journeyed out into the world and made his fortune. In Rome he had become a famous artist, but had not forgotten his small native country up north. On the contrary, he had decided to both return home and donate his sculptures and other collections to his native town Copenhagen, on the condition that a museum was built to house and exhibit the collections. It was therefore no wonder that his return became a public celebration. Eckersberg’s painting depicts the white-haired Thorvaldsen in the Captain’s barge sailing towards land from the ship Rota. The dock is filled with small boats with people who had sailed out to greet their countryman.