This is a painting by Thomas Cole from his four-painting series entitled Voyage of Life (1840). The series is an allegory of the human journey from birth to eternity. A lone traveler sails the symbolic River of Life with the help of angelic guide. This particular piece is a depiction of youth.
In your notebook, describe the picture in writing. What is happening in this scene? What does it mean? Why would Cole depict youth in this way? Is that a fitting depiction, in your opinion? Why or Why not?