The idea of ​​the union of the two elements is embodied by Rubens in the images of ancient mythology: the god of the seas, Neptune, leaning on a trident, personifies Water, Cybele, with a cornucopia in her hand, represents the Earth. The fertile union, which gives fertility, wealth and prosperity to humanity, is crowned with a wreath by the goddess Glory descended from Olympus and glorifies Triton rising from the depths of the sea. The interpretation of the images testifies to Rubens' excellent knowledge of the monuments of ancient art.

It is no coincidence that Cybele's pose resembles the famous statue of Praxiteles "Resting Satyr". The pyramidal composition, built on the principles of symmetry and balance of forms, the sensual tangibility of naked bodies and the warm golden brown coloring are marked by the influence of the late Italian Renaissance, especially by Venetian artists. However, turning to the theme of the elements, traditional for European art, Rubens filled it with modern content, linking it with the current problems of his country: the union of Earth and Water meant the union of Antwerp with the Scheldt River, the mouth of which was then blocked by the Dutch, who deprived Flanders of access to the sea. Thus, myth and reality, antiquity and national history organically combined in Rubens' painting.