The subject of this uncommissioned portrait is believed to be Lena Brasch, the sister-in-law of Roberts’ close friend Louis Abrahams. Her brother Reuben established Curlew camp at Little Sirius Cove, where Roberts and Arthur Streeton lived for a time.

Here Roberts’ handling of costume and figure placement follows a decorative and poetic style of portrait which Roberts saw in London. He was also aware of the contemporary influence of Aestheticism in portraiture. Here restrained tonal harmonies and palette and simple compositional elements allow atmosphere and effect to take precedence.