The story of Salome’s beheading involves her dancing for her stepfather, King Herod Antipas, who promised her anything she desired. Prompted by her mother, Herodias, Salome demanded the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Despite his reluctance, Herod, bound by his oath, had John beheaded in prison, and Salome delivered the gruesome reward to her mother (from AI).

Several versions of Salome executed by Grell.  The largest has been altered.  The Dancing version recently sold at 1stdibs.com asking price was $18,000

c1930’s oil on canvas, image = 39.5″ x 31.75″, frame = 45.5″ x 38.25″ private collection

Dancing Salome with floating head of John the Baptist (later removed by an unknown person) photo has the painting dimensions as 40″ x 32″; the smaller oil on canvas photo has the dimensions of the smaller Salome painting as 30.25″ x 30.25″

Traditional version oil painting sketch – 8.75″ x 11.5″ graphite on paper of the smaller Salome

Sources: The Grell Spiral Sketchbooks collection (Romano / Schmidt; acquired in 2025).  Two color photos of oil on canvas paintings with dimensions en verso; Dancing Salome with floating head of John the Baptist & Dancing Salome with executioner holding the head of John the Baptist and a platter.