Tannhäuser

Tannhäuser

Aubrey Beardsley

1885

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This image shows a dramatic scene framed like a stage set. A robed figure with outstretched arms stands in a dark, wooded area, their face turned away. Above them, a sunflower and birds float in the top border, while flowers and vines wrap around the edges. The lines are sharp and precise, with heavy black ink and white highlights. The name "Tannhäuser" is written at the bottom, hinting at a story behind this image. The artist used ink and wash to create bold contrasts, almost like a sketch brought to life. Want to see more work like this? Check out Beardsley, Aubrey.

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