Lanyon travelled to Czechoslovakia between 3rd
and 17th February in 1964 at the invitation of the British Council. During this time he presented lectures, but also found time to paint and draw. His trip
included a three-day visit to Bratislava, specifically the High Tatra
Mountains, which provided the inspiration for several major oils. Our work on
paper may well have been completed during his time in the capital or completed shortly
afterwards. Writing to his dealer, Catherine Viviano, he commented on his Czech
work, stating "I think the work this time is clearer and is getting nearer
to people in places instead of the weather. As you will see, the Slovak Muse
hit hard."