Salome with the Head of St John the Baptist

The picture shows the fifth predella panel of the St Barnaba Altarpiece.

As a reward for her dancing, Salome has received the head of the Baptist from Herod. She is standing in front of the barred entrance to the prison in which St John the Baptist was held prisoner.

You can view other depictions of Salome with the Head of John the Baptist.

Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 15 minutes): Richard Strauss: Salome, closing scene