This piece was composed in 1839, during a time when Schumann was still struggling to marry the love of his life, Clara Wieck. During this period, they could only communicate through letters, and most of the music he composed during that time was also partially directed towards Clara.

The word Arabesque is used to evoke the intricate designs found in Arabic artworks and tapestries. This work is a decorative-type of piece, full of contrasting moods. There is lightness and dream mood to it.