The figures are dressed as Columbine and Crispin from the Commedia dell'Arte and from French popular drama respectively; they may be actors, off-stage, or lovers in fancy dress. A387 is typical of Watteau's enigmatic paintings, often inspired by theatrical and musical themes; it may date from c.1713. The figures reappear in an engraving by Gabriel Huquier, perhaps based on a lost drawing. An early copy of A387 is at Rennes.