Like many of the drawings in the Secret Book of Designs this example reflects upon Burne-Jones's relationships. It recalls the 1870 portrait of Maria Zambaco (Clemens Sels Museum Neuss) but the sitter does not engage with the viewer and is absorbed in reading, consequently the observer is now challenged by Cupid who provocatively draws the curtain aside and looks directly out, the meaning of the subject has altered completely. With hindsight, Burne-Jones's experience has allowed him to mock himself while recalling a difficult period in his life.