The artwork “Hail Mary (pencil)” by Aubrey Beardsley is executed in pencil and is classified within the Art Nouveau movement, which is also known as Modern style. The genre of the piece is a portrait, and it is currently held in a private collection.
The image presents a side profile of a woman’s face and upper torso. The composition is dominated by the strong contour lines that define her facial features and elaborate hairstyle. Her hair is voluminous, with some kind of decorative accessory or detailing on the side, possibly a floral element. The portrait conveys a certain softness and grace, which are emphasized by the delicate shading used to model the woman’s face and hair. The background behind the figure is simple and void of detail, which puts an emphasis on the subject. Additionally, the title “Hail Mary” is inscribed at the top of the artwork, suggesting a reference or dedication, potentially linking the portrait to religious or devotional themes.
