Author(s): Aubrey Beardsley

Art Theory

To critics who said that the full-lipped so-called 'Beardsley mouth', which adorned many of his women, was inexpressive and ugly, the artist countered, 'Well, let them criticise. It's my mouth and not theirs. I like big mouths. People like the little mouth - the Dolly Varden mouth, if that describes it better. A big mouth is the sign of character and strength. Look at Ellen Terry with her great, strong mouth. In fact, I haven't any patience with small-mouthed people.' And other witty, urbane insights on life, art, and culture from one of the most influential artists in the aesthetic movement. Here they are illustrated with selected drawings from his Grotesques series, which showcase both his creativity and his command of line.