 Although described as "resembling a classical sculpture more than a pretty, contemporary woman", Cook's representation is viewed as sensual, and representing an intensely private moment, underscored by the attention paid to her features and the disarray of her hairline.The suggestion of repressed sexuality has been seen as both intriguing and disturbing.Before giving the painting to Cook, Eakins inscribed "To his friend/Maude Cook/Thomas Eakins/1895" on the back and carved its frame.