The view runs symmetrically down a snow-covered cobblestone square toward a large Christmas tree strung with lights at its center. Historic townhouses line both sides, dressed in pine garland, wreaths and ribbon, and strings of lights cross overhead between the buildings. Small figures stroll across the foreground and midground, giving the scene its scale.

Cool blue dusk fills the air while warm pools of golden light spill from shop windows, string lights and the tree. Painted in loose, impressionist oil with thick dabs of paint for the lights and snow, the glows bloom softly rather than sparkle sharply, and fine detail is kept to a minimum. The result is a cozy, nostalgic evening at a European Christmas market.