In 1970, David Boyd settled in the south of France. A number of important series, including the Wanderer, The Exiles and the Orchard of Heaven were painted during this period and exhibited in London and Australia. Cressida and Ruso in the Garden was painted in the year prior to Boyd's return to Australia in 1975. The title of the painting refers to the artist's granddaughter and to the family cat Ruso. This painting comes from the artist's family and has not been offered for sale since it was painted.