'A maiden in resplendent eastern dress of crimson, with a gold thread pattern worked throughout, playing a stringed instrument while she sings "Hodie Jesu Christus natus est Hallelujah,"' is how the painting was described by Rossetti's studio assistant and friend, Henry Treffry Dunn. As part of a series of portraits by Rossetti featuring women in elaborate gowns with musical instruments, this work depicts a figure draped in a lavish Eastern-style robe of gold and purple hues. She sings a joyful Christmas hymn while playing a lyre suspended from her neck, her head tilted in a posture of melodic expression. The model is Ellen Smith, and this is one of her final portrayals by Rossetti, as well as his most detailed representation of her. The composition was possibly inspired by a decorative oriental mandolin from the Rossetti's personal collection of curiosities.