The title was given in the 1808 British Institution catalogue as 'Jason, from Ovid's Metamorphosis’: Jason is shown slaying the dragon that guarded the Golden Fleece. Gage suggests (1969, pp.137-9) that the subject of this picture was chosen following P. J. de Loutherbourg's rare precedent because of its alchemical associations, but Turner's omission of the Fleece suggests that once again his choice was motivated by a desire to paint an essay in the manner of an admired Old Master, in this case Salvator Rosa. However, unlike the Rosa-like figures in 'Dolbadern Castle', the figure here plays a leading role for the first time in Turner's work. For a possible sketch see No.92.

The subject was engraved for the Liber Studiorum, R.6 (No.100). This plate was published in Part I on 11 June 1807 and was labelled 'H' for Historical.