the piece in e minor and common time is marked andante moderato. a synopsis of scenes by the composer mentions that after a short introduction, "the incantation of the priests in the temple" is followed by "the perfume of incence floats on the air". two lovers are illustrated by a melody for cello, viola and oboe accompanied by pizzicato, followed by a noisy manchu wedding procession. an argument of coolies is based on a chinese scale. the temple gong restores quietness, and the piece ends recalling many of the themes.