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The Climax, 1893. Creator: Aubrey Beardsley
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The Climax, 1893. Creator: Aubrey Beardsley
The Climax, 1893. The floating figure of Salome holds the severed head of John the Baptist (Jokanaan). The head has writhing snake-like hair, and drips blood which forms a pool from which grows a white lily. A cluster of bubble-like objects perhaps reference the clusters of black grapes to which Salome compares Johns hair. Illustration for " Salome" by Oscar Wilde, [John Lane, 1894]. From " The Best of Beardsley" edited by R. A. Walker, [The Bodley Head, London, 1948]
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Media ID 24364776
© Shirley Markham Collection/Heritage Images
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The Climax, 1893
EDITORS COMMENTS
by Aubrey Beardsley is a captivating and haunting illustration that captures the essence of Oscar Wilde's play "Salome". In this print, we see the ethereal figure of Salome floating above the ground, holding the severed head of John the Baptist (Jokanaan) in her delicate hands. The head is depicted with writhing snake-like hair, symbolizing both its grotesque nature and its connection to temptation. As blood drips from Jokanaan's decapitated body, it forms a pool on the ground from which a pure white lily grows. This juxtaposition between life and death is further emphasized by clusters of bubble-like objects reminiscent of black grapes mentioned in Wilde's text. It is through these intricate details that Beardsley masterfully brings together elements from literature, religion, and nature. The overall composition exudes an air of decadence and horror as Salome gazes upon her gruesome trophy. Her hairstyle reflects both sensuality and danger while emphasizing her role as a femme fatale within this biblical narrative. Through his unique graphic design style, Beardsley pushes boundaries with provocative imagery that challenges societal norms. This print not only showcases Beardsley's artistic talent but also serves as a testament to his contribution to art nouveau movement during the late 19th century. With meticulous attention to detail and symbolism, he creates an image that continues to captivate viewers even over a century later.
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