The artwork titled “How Morgan Le Fay Gave a Shield to Sir Tristram” is an illustration created by artist Aubrey Beardsley in 1894. It belongs to the Art Nouveau movement, which was prominent at the end of the 19th century and into the beginning of the 20th century. The genre of the artwork is illustration, and it is known for its highly stylized and modern design elements typical of the Art Nouveau era.
Beardsley’s illustration depicts a scene with two central figures, presumably Morgan Le Fay and Sir Tristram, engaged in the act of the shield being passed. Morgan Le Fay is bending slightly forward, handing over a shield to Sir Tristram. Sir Tristram is presented with flowing hair and a detailed, ornate tunic, standing to receive the shield with an air of nobility. Surrounding the characters, intricate floral patterns and winding plant forms dominate the border, characteristic of Beardsley’s style and his penchant for including elaborate details. The backdrop shows a pastoral landscape with trees and a castle in the distance, enhancing the medieval theme of the artwork. The piece utilizes a strong contrast of black and white, which highlights the silhouetted figures and accentuates the decorative elements, creating a striking visual composition. This synthesis of bold figures and ornamental detail exemplifies Beardsley’s contribution to the Art Nouveau movement and his influence on the illustration genre. The title of the piece is presented within the illustration itself in a banner-like form at the bottom, making it an integral part of the overall design.
