In March 1903, Munch met the young English violinist Eva Mudocci (1883 (?) - 1953) in Paris, probably through the composer Frederick Delius, with whom he was staying at the time. The lithograph was born of the love affair that ensued between them. The artist presented the lithographic stone to Eva with a note that read 'Here is the stone that dropped from my heart.' (R. Stang, Edvard Munch, The Man and his Art, New York, 1977, p. 178, note 9). In contrast to Munch's more problematic images of women, this sensitive portrait celebrates a new, fresh love, presenting Eva as powerful and sensual, but benevolent. It also reflects the sitter's strength of character.