Completed in 1891, the year it was displayed at the Royal Academy of Arts,[2] it depicts the Greek mythological story of Andromeda.

Andromeda's almost naked, twisted body is shaded by the wings of the dark creature, creating a visual sign of imminent danger.

[4] The white body of Andromeda is depicted in pure and untouched innocence, indicating an unfair sacrifice for a divine punishment that was not directed towards her, but her mother.

Pegasus and Perseus are surrounded by a halo of light that connects them visually to the white body of the princess, chained to the rock.

[2] The statuette was naked but Leighton placed wet materials over it to achieve the effect he wanted to reproduce in his work.