[1] It features the biblical figure of Bathsheba in a nude scene, who is watched bathing by the Israelite king David.

She is shown facing away from the viewer and wearing a single bangle on her arm while David can be seen at a high vantage point at the top of the painting.

[2] Numerous paintings had been produced from the Renaissance era onwards featuring the scene.

Hayez appears to have produced the work on his own initiative without a commission.

It was exhibited at the Brera Academy in Milan the same year and acquired by William I of Württemberg.