Nash first visited Avebury in 1933. The site contains the largest complex of Neolithic stone circles and avenues in England. Nash’s attention was caught by one particular standing stone that became the subject of this painting and Stone Tree. At the time of his visit the site was still wild and untended: some stones were half covered by grass, others entangled or overgrown in the copse but the colouring and pattern, the patina of golden lichen, all enhanced the strange forms and mystical significance for the artist.