This work had particular significance for its creator. The solitary figure of the monk, engaged in contemplation with the aim of gaining enlightenment, corresponded to the position of an artist. Robert Finlayson felt a great affinity with Zen Budhhism, and a number of his works draw upon Zen concepts and motifs.
Bob put a small brushtroke of mid-blue in the centre of the bottom inner edge of the painting's frame. This is not discernible in the reproduction above.