“The Fat Woman,” created by Aubrey Beardsley in 1894, is an illustration that forms part of the Art Nouveau movement, often referred to as Modern. This artwork is currently housed in Tate Britain, London, UK. Beardsley’s distinctive style and his contribution to the Art Nouveau movement are exemplified in this piece.
The artwork depicts a robust woman seated behind a table, characterized by her ample figure and austere demeanor. She is attired in a plain, slightly off-shoulder dress, adorned with a simple bow at the front. Her attire is accentuated by dark, elongated gloves and a singular, prominent hat that extends upwards and contrasts starkly against the monochromatic background. The woman’s hand rests on the table, holding a small glass beside which stands a bottle. This composition, defined by bold, black lines and stark contrasts, reveals Beardsley’s masterful control over form and negative space, lending a sense of both simplicity and intensity to the piece.
