Robert Indiana kept a series of illustrated journals during the late 1950s and 1960s, in which he discusses the development of his work as well as his daily life on Coenties Slip.

In his journal page for April 18, 1962, Indiana records that he is continuing to work on his constructions. The entry includes a color illustration of Orb, a newly named construction in gesso/iron/oil/on wood, measuring 59 1/2 x 12 3/4 inches.