The Black Cat 1894

"The Black Cat" is a striking black and white illustration by Aubrey Beardsley, known for his distinctive Art Nouveau style. Created in 1894, the piece depicts a woman with a black cat perched on her head, its sharp claws and piercing eye creating a sense of foreboding. Beardsley's use of bold lines and dramatic contrasts highlights the enigmatic nature of the subject, leaving the viewer to interpret the symbolism behind the image. The starkness of the composition, and the mysterious gaze of the cat, are typical of Beardsley's work and contributed to his reputation as a master of the macabre.