The handmade paper vat fills the foreground with cloudy water and pale suspended fibres. Above it, a maker holds a broad wooden mould and deckle almost level, allowing droplets to fall from the frame while the fresh sheet settles on its surface. His striped shirt and plum apron carry small splashes from the work.

The photograph makes the contrast between wet and dry materials especially clear. Dark saturated wood surrounds the creamy pulp, while folded felt cloths wait on shelves behind the maker. A window and a small shaded lamp illuminate his focused face and steady hands. Worn boards, simple tools and a glistening slate floor complete the practical workshop setting.