This panoramic painting depicts a densely populated public square in the city of Roubaix, France, during a daytime event under an overcast sky

This panoramic painting depicts a densely populated public square in the city of Roubaix, France, during a daytime event under an overcast sky. The scene is dominated by several large architectural structures. On the right, the ornate Roubaix City Hall (Hôtel de Ville), a grand building with a prominent central spire, clock tower, and multiple levels, is heavily adorned with French tricolor flags. A red carpet extends from its entrance down a flight of stairs, suggesting a formal occasion. To the immediate right of the City Hall, a smaller, similarly styled building stands. On the far left, a multi-story building with a distinctive pointed spire anchors the corner, followed by a row of classical and Haussmannian-style buildings, also decorated with French flags. Towards the center-left background, a gothic-style church with twin spires is visible, set back from the main thoroughfare. The central square and connecting streets are filled with a large crowd of people. Individuals are depicted in period attire, predominantly dark suits and dresses, with many men wearing top hats or bowler hats and women wearing bonnets. A significant number of attendees hold aloft white or light-colored circular objects, possibly parasols, fans, or placards, which create a notable pattern across the crowd. The density of the crowd is highest in the central square, with individuals standing and observing the proceedings. No specific individual actions or interactions are clearly discernible due to the scale, but the overall scene depicts a communal gathering. The ground is paved, and period streetlights are visible throughout the square.