Gemito married Anna Cutolo in 1882 and modeled the terracotta model for the offered work (Galleria Nazionale d'Art Moderna, Roma) in 1886. In 1887 the sculptor succumbed to mental illness, returning to the world 20 years later. His wife was not only his protector, but also his inspiration for those decades.
The present bronze is typical of this unique sculptor's mastry of technique and his ability to present an intimate and intense portrait. Other marble versions, with different hair and truncation, are in the Gilgore Collection and a private collection, Naples.