This is one of Theodoor van Thulden's preparatory studies for his set of prints after Francesco Primaticcio's frescoes in the Gallery of Ulysses at Fontainebleau, which was published in multiple editions by various publishers between 1633 and 1640. This drawing depicts three episodes from Ulysses' return home: the punishment of Melanthios, who had provided the enemy suitors with arms, for which Ulysses severed Melanthios's hands, feet, ears, and genitals; the joyful greeting of Ulysses by the servant woman; and the faithful maid Eurycleia rushing up the stairs to inform Penelope of her husband's return. The crowded drawing manages to convey three emotions—brutality, tenderness, and revelation—in a single scene.