Marie Spartali began her career as a model for members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and for photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, but soon decided to become a painter herself. After marrying fellow artist W. James Stillman, Spartali spent part of her time in Italy, between Florence and Rome. The Ponte Nomentano is a picturesque Roman bridge celebrated for its medieval bridge tower, seen at left in Stillman's watercolor. She enjoyed a long career although her work has remained little known.
Signed with monogram at lower right. Stamped at lower right, "[effaced]3". Signed on back of frame in pen and black ink, "LS. Bain(?)".