This evocative scene captures a young Thracian girl tenderly carrying the severed head of Orpheus, which rests upon his lyre. The composition is intimate yet charged with mythic tragedy, with the girl's gentle expression contrasting the lifeless serenity of Orpheus’ head. Rich, earthy tones dominate the palette, with deep greens, reds, and browns blending into the rocky, somber background that suggests a wild, untamed landscape. The detailed rendering of fabrics and textures invites a tactile appreciation, while the soft, diffused light gives the scene an almost dreamlike, melancholic aura.

The painting’s composition is vertical and tightly focused, emphasizing the emotional connection between the figures. The background's muted and almost misty quality contrasts with the detailed foreground, enhancing the sense of depth and timelessness. Historically, this work draws on classical mythology, evoking the tragic fate of Orpheus, whose music could charm even the dead. The emotional impact is profound; one can almost hear the silent lament carried on the breeze, feeling the weight of loss and devotion. This masterpiece embodies a Romantic fascination with myth, emotion, and the sublime power of art itself.