The artist's model; a female nude

The present work is quite rare in Etty's output in that, although it incorporates his recognisable composition of a single nude figure, the model appears to be in a much more intimate and relaxed setting than the Life Room at the Royal Academy Schools where most of Etty's nude studies were executed. It is possible that this painting was done in Etty's own studio, with the model's gown loosely draped on a chest at her feet.

Commenting on Etty's passionate and dedicated work ethic, the artist Holman Hunt said that Etty 'was intoxicated with the delight of painting, and when, after a careful reloading of his brush, he drove the tool upwards in frequent bouts before his half closed eyes, I don't think that, had he been asked suddenly, he could have told his name.' (Holman Hunt, Pre-Raphaelitism and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, London, 1905, vol. 1, pp. 94-5).