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Portrait of Himself, 1894. Creator: Aubrey Beardsley
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Portrait of Himself, 1894. Creator: Aubrey Beardsley
Portrait of Himself, 1894. British artist and eccentric Aubrey Beardsley (1872-1898) depicts himself as a tiny figure in an enormous canopied bed. Inscription top left: Par les Dieux Jumeaux tous les Monstres ne sont pas en Afrique. [By the twin Gods, not all monsters are in Africa], a reference to Beardsleys frail health due to tuberculosis. He was diagnosed at the age of seven, and knew that he would not live very long. Despite frequent bouts of ill-health, he produced well over a thousand drawings between 1893 and 1898. His decadent and erotic subject matter was frequently shocking and even pornographic. His brilliant career was cut short when he died, aged 25, in the South of France. From The Yellow Book, Vol. III. Compared to the pomposities in the Uffizi Gallery, this is a delightfully witty self-portrait, Published in " The Best of Beardsley" edited by R. A. Walker, [The Bodley Head, London, 1948]
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this self-portrait, British artist Aubrey Beardsley transports us into his world of decadence and introspection. Created in 1894, the image showcases Beardsley as a diminutive figure nestled within an expansive canopied bed. The inscription at the top left corner reads, "Par les Dieux Jumeaux tous les Monstres ne sont pas en Afrique" which translates to "By the twin Gods, not all monsters are in Africa". This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of Beardsley's frail health due to tuberculosis, a condition he had been diagnosed with since childhood. Despite his delicate constitution, Beardsley's artistic output was prolific. Between 1893 and 1898 alone, he produced over a thousand drawings that often explored decadent and erotic subject matter. His unapologetic exploration of taboo themes frequently shocked society and even bordered on pornography. Tragically, Beardsley's brilliant career was cut short when he passed away at the tender age of 25 while residing in the South of France. However brief his time on Earth may have been, his impact on art nouveau remains indelible. Compared to the grandiosity found within esteemed galleries like Uffizi Gallery, this self-portrait stands out for its delightful wit and charm. Published in "The Yellow Book" - an influential periodical showcasing contemporary literature and art - it is now immortalized as one of Beardsley's most iconic works. This black-and-white print captures not only Beardsley himself but also encapsulates an era defined by ornate decoration and intricate floral patterns adorning soft furnishings. It serves as a testament to both his remarkable talent and enduring legacy within the art world.
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