In the summer of 1934, Frida learned that Diego was having an affair with her younger sister Cristina. She was emotionally devastated by the affair and separated from Diego. During that year she produced no paintings. The following year she produced only two paintings, both a reflection of her anger over the affair. In this painting, she portrays herself with short curly hair, most likely to spite Diego who was very fond of her long flowing hair.
This painting was auctioned at Christie's in New York in November of 2003. It sold for $1,351,500. The price included a second work: a sketch for a second portrait etched on the back.