The artwork, titled “Self-portrait,” was crafted by Aubrey Beardsley around the year 1894. This piece is emblematic of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and belongs to the genre of self-portraits. It is currently housed in the National Portrait Gallery in London, UK.
In the artwork, Beardsley employs a minimalist yet expressive line technique, characteristic of his unique style. This self-portrait features the artist turned slightly away from the viewer, with detailed emphasis on the contours of his face and upper body. The use of stark black lines against the white background highlights the precision and economy of Beardsley’s draughtsmanship. The depiction is both introspective and melancholic, subtly capturing the complexities of the artist’s persona.