The expression refers to a widespread translation of an aphorism of the philosopher Democritus, "Of truth we know nothing, for truth is in a well [lit. in an abyss]."[6] The nudity of the model refers to the expression 'the naked truth'.[7] According to his biographer Charles Moreau-Vauthier, Gérôme slept with the painting above his bed and was found after his death in 1904 with his arm stretched out towards it in a gesture of farewell.[8]