An early study for Venus in Venus Discordia, made during a period of stress c.1870 owing to the relationship with Maria Zambaco. Burne-Jones obviously later felt that such distress indicated by the twisted hands and limbs, was not suitable for permanent inclusion in the final painting. In the pencil composition study made in 1871 (Whitworth Art Gallery) the artist has already rejected this anxious figure in favour of a contemplative figure. Burne-Jones rarely designed figures in such anxious states but exceptions are found in Despair, Envy and Folly (St Chad's Church, Rochdale) of 1873 and the statues in the Pilgrim Outside the Garden of Idleness embroidery designed in 1874 and The Souls by the Styx c.1873.