The central figure is a woman depicted from the chest up, characterized by a solemn, ethereal expression and deep, dark eyes that gaze directly forward. Her voluminous, vibrant orange hair cascades downwards, merging with the intricate, golden-hued textures of her garment. A slender, golden serpent is coiled gracefully around her neck and torso, its body creating a rhythmic, winding pattern that draws the viewer's eye across the composition.
The artwork is rendered in a distinct Art Nouveau style, characterized by flattened perspective and a heavy emphasis on decorative patterns. The background is a muted, mottled shade, providing a soft contrast to the intensity of the warm reds, oranges, and shimmering golds that define the woman and the serpent. The overall mood is one of quiet, mystical elegance.
Notable details include the delicate floral or geometric motifs woven into the woman's hair and clothing, which reflect the ornamental aesthetic typical of the period. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones, radiant golds, and fiery oranges, creating a warm, luminous effect. The composition is vertical and focused entirely on the symbolic figure, presenting her as a timeless, iconic presence. While text appears in the margins, the focus remains firmly on the evocative, stylized portrait of the figure identified as Hygieia.