This work is influenced by Egyptian art and cubism with the face being shown face-on and in profile at the same time. Inspired by the original poem of Vitor Hugo, that tells of a girl bathing who wishes she could do so in the open without comment or fear of being overlooked. Berlioz wrote music for this piece, included in a work called 'the orientals' - hence the reference to Egypt - and Paul illustrated many of his works, finding them powerful and inspirational. The amazing detail in the background deserves mention, complementing the figure in the foreground, who is savouring the water on her skin. Signed P.B.B. 'a lovely song by Berlioz for three choirs.' P.B.B. 1987.