A young woman in a vibrant red garment holds a large metal platter bearing the severed head of a bearded man, his eyes closed and face serene in death. Her gaze is lowered, her expression calm and introspective, while her exposed shoulder and the luminous quality of her skin stand out against the dark background. Beside her, a younger female figure dressed in green looks up at her with wide eyes, her face illuminated by the same soft light that falls across the main figure's features.

The folds of the red sleeve are painted with delicate transitions of light and shadow, capturing the texture of the fabric and the play of light across its surface. The composition draws the figures close to the picture plane, creating a sense of immediacy and intimacy, while the background recedes into darkness, focusing attention on the drama of the foreground. Fine brushwork is visible in the rendering of hair, especially in the soft curls of the main figure and the beard of the severed head, which contrast with the smooth modeling of flesh and fabric. The painting has also been associated with the figures of Judith and Herodias in its history, as noted in the museum's record and in art historical discussion.

The Galleria Doria Pamphilj's record notes that the painting was once attributed to Giorgione, but it is now recognized as an early work by Titian, showing the development of his personal style. This work belongs to the Venetian school and is considered part of the High Renaissance, as seen in its rich color, atmospheric effects, and the naturalism of the figures. Within Titian's career, this painting is seen as an example of his early mastery of oil technique and his ability to evoke tactile sensations, such as the softness of hair and flesh.