[3] The painting remained in Kahlo's possession until it was acquired by the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes (INBA) in 1947.

[4][5] Some art historians have suggested that the two figures in the painting represent Frida's dual heritage.

[10] The work alludes to Kahlo's life of constant pain and surgical procedures and the Aztec tradition of human sacrifice.

[11] The tragic motor accident that left her bedridden and then with medical problems throughout her life is shown through the two figures; one is weak while the other is strong.

[11] Hispanic studies professor Sarah M. Misemer suggests that Kahlo's multi-racial representation seen in The Two Fridas reflects the impact that the colonial era had on racial demographics in Mexico.

[12] Additionally, Misemer argues that Kahlo's representation of herself as a multi-racial individual serves as a cultural symbol for the Mexican nation.

[12] This multifaceted nature of her identity is expanded through the set of the play; a sketch of a self-portrait of Kahlo is a prop on the stage.

Misemer's studies suggest that Kahlo's medical conditions and pain prevented Rivera from ending their relationship.