It was only in his late works that Renoir began to treat specifically mythological themes. Titian and Rubens remained Renoir's most important influences in these late years, due to both the splendour of their vision and their technique. In 1915 he made designs for a tapestry cartoon for the city of Lyon, representing the Saône embraced by the Rhône, which he intended his friend Albert André to execute to his specifications.

François Daulte has kindly confirmed that this work will be included in Volume XI of the Renoir catalogue raisonné of pastels, watercolours and drawings which he is currently preparing.