The Lady with the Monkey 1898

Aubrey Beardsley made this drawing, "The Lady with the Monkey," using pen and ink, a process allowing for stark contrasts and intricate details. The sweeping lines and dense patterns across the lady’s elaborate gown evoke a sense of luxury, sharply rendered in black and white. Look closely and you’ll notice the labor-intensive quality of the image. Beardsley wasn't just creating a picture; he was simulating the effect of textiles and ornamentation, all through the careful application of ink. The monkey in livery, offering a crown, adds a layer of social commentary – hinting at class structures and perhaps a satirical view of the era’s opulence. Beardsley masterfully blurred the lines between fine art illustration and the detailed craft of printmaking. By engaging with subjects of social commentary, Beardsley elevates what might have been seen as mere illustration into a potent observation of Victorian society.