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 entry for June 9, 1961, Indiana notes that it was his last day at Scarsdale (where he taught art classes), and that it ended on a quiet note, with low attendance and much work being left behind. He records that J. (his partner, fashion designer John Kloss), met him at his train that evening and that they dined in Grand Central Station. 

The page also includes a sketch of two 12 by 11-inch works, one titled Single Orb Pendant, and the other Double Orb Pendant. They were later combined with a third canvas to become the triptych Ra.