Lacretelle studied in Paris, but came to London in 1851. He exhibited at the Paris Salon from 1841-81 and at the Royal Academy from 1851-91. Principally known as a portrait painter, he also produced genre scenes and equestrian works.

Catherine Walters was born in Liverpool in 1839, and arrived in London before 1859. She apparently acquired her nickname from working in a skittle alley in her youth. Her renowned beauty and skill as a horsewoman allowed her to move up the social scale. She became the celebrated mistress of Spencer Cavendish, Lord Hartington (1833-1908), the eldest son of the 7th Duke of Devonshire and moved in social circles which included the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII.

She is depicted mounted on a chestnut horse, riding to the left, in a landscape or park setting, wearing a black riding hat and a rose corsage. The portrait was previously identified as Elizabeth, Empress of Austria (1837-98).