A grand, light-colored stone building dominates the right two-thirds of the frame, its ornate facade featuring rows of rectangular windows. Many windows are dark, reflecting the overcast sky, while others emanate a warm, golden light from within. To the left, a vast, partially frozen river stretches under a muted sky, reflecting bright light patches on its icy surface. Beyond the river, a distinctive cluster of cubist-like residential buildings and distant bridges punctuate the horizon of a snow-covered urban landscape, establishing a cold, early morning scene.