In spring of 1914, Jawlensky spent two weeks in Bordighera on the Ligurian coast. He took thermal baths and enjoyed the so-called Flower-Riviera, where many affluent Russians were passing the winter.
Even though he only stayed for two weeks, the Mediterranean architecture, the mild climate and the luscious nature inspired him to create a group of paintings which illustrate his exuberance. He enjoyed the "feast of nature", a title he bestowed on one of these works.
These feelings are also manifest in his painting technique. He still surrounded the colour fields with a contrasting line, but instead of the usual dark colours he used blue. The colours are overall lighter and more joyful, in parts even transparent, so that the support shines through or is even left unpainted in places. All this exudes a levity and love of life which clearly expresses Jawlensky's frame of mind during these two weeks.
