The artwork, titled “The Battle of the Beaux and the Belles,” was created by artist Aubrey Beardsley in the year 1896. Rendered in Indian ink, this piece is part of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and exemplifies genre painting.
The intricately detailed composition showcases a scene of aristocratic individuals adorned in lavish, elaborate attire typical of the Rococo era. The figures are set within an opulent interior, complete with richly decorated furnishings and ornate draperies. The meticulous linework and expressive use of contrast in the ink give the characters a theatrical presence, capturing a moment of interaction and social intrigue. The exaggerated hairstyles and costumes are characteristic of Beardsley’s distinctive style, underscoring both the decadence and the satirical elements inherent in his work.