During the final years of his life Gris suffered from the effects of severe asthma and uremia, although it was difficult for doctors to diagnose his complaints at the time. He moved frequently in search of a climate which was most suitable to his health. The recommendations of his physicians to rest and follow special diets enforced upon him a "monastic" way of life. This gouache is closely related to La fenêtre du peintre, 1925 (D. Cooper, Juan Gris, Paris, 1977, vol. II, no. 543; coll. Baltimore Museum of Art, bequest of Saidie A. May). Here the artist takes stock of the tools of his craft and his motifs. His palette and brush are present, as well as a guitar, fruit and books. The scene is illuminated by an open window which symbolizes the artist's yearning for the outside world, and at the same time serves to set apart and intensify the experience of an interior world which he has fabricated for himself and his art.

George Gonzales Gris has confirmed the authenticity of this gouache.