Mary and her mother are sitting on the hillside at Monte Calvario, Porto Maurizio in Italy. The Old Monastery behind the figures was the rented home of Knighton-Hammond’s architect friend Edgar Wood (1860-1935). The architecture feels monumental and is cleverly detailed. The trees, rich in foliage, contrast with the blue Mediterranean sky.

Edgar Wood stayed at the Old Monastery whilst he designed and built his own arts and craft house a short distance away. The Knighton-Hammond family were frequent visitors to Monte Calvario and it is likely that Edgar, an accomplished artist, encouraged Knighton-Hammond to paint in pastel.

Mary and her Mother frequently featured in the artist’s compositions. His young wife was the love of his life as was his daughter.