Two women are staring at the monkey, which is on a leash; presumably its trainer is holding the other end.

During the Edo era, it was common for a monkey trainer to visit wealthy households during the New Year season to perform and receive a reward.

The standing woman, with her obi sash tied in the front and holding a Japanese pipe, could be the mother, while the kneeling woman might be her daughter.

Given their elaborate kimonos, the wall decorations, and the stack of books, it is likely that they are from a wealthy family. The blue area at left is not water in the distance, but is a hanging 'noren' curtain, with a white design of 'warabi' (a type of fern).