For nearly seven years, Rutger Schimmelpenninck promoted the interests of the Batavian Republic in Paris and London. As a patriot, he championed democracy. He and his wife Catharina Nahuys formed a successful ambassadorial duo.

The portrait demonstrates their closeness and their love for nature and their children, Catharina and Gerrit. Initially, Catharina leaned on her husband’s shoulder with both arms in a more intimate pose, which the artist adjusted while painting.