Initial Letter S (Falcon) 1898

Curator: Here we have Aubrey Beardsley's "Initial Letter S (Falcon)," currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: What a striking image! The contrast between the intricate falcon and the stark "S" is immediately captivating. Curator: Beardsley, a key figure in the Aesthetic movement, often challenged Victorian norms through his art. This initial letter design reflects his interest in the decorative arts. Editor: The falcon, adorned with jewels, seems almost regal, yet predatory. It evokes themes of power and perhaps even decadence, amplified by the symbolic weight of the letter "S." Curator: Absolutely, it mirrors the period's fascination with symbols and the blurring of boundaries between art and design, reflecting the artistic license of late 19th century. Editor: Considering the social and cultural context, this piece feels like a visual statement against the constraints of that time. Curator: Indeed. It is a brilliant encapsulation of an era in flux.