Aubrey Beardsley, "Puck on Pegasus", frontispiece to The Savoy, c.1900
This work is one of Beardsley's most famous illustrations, and was used as the cover art for issues 3 to 8 of the art magazine The Savoy, which was first published in 1896.
This work depicts, with a humorous and light-hearted touch, the fantastical scene from Shakespeare's comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream," in which the mischievous fairy Puck rides across the sky on his winged horse, Pegasus.
At first glance the piece appears simple, but Beardsley's characteristically elegant omission and exaggeration of lines cleverly combines the freedom of a fairy, the sense of wind-like speed, and the symbolism of a magazine cover.
Puck's figure, holding the reins and wielding his sword, seems to embody his role as a guide into a world of poetry and fantasy.
After Beardsley's early death in 1898, John Lane Publishing, the publisher of his masterpiece Salome, produced a memorial collection of his posthumous works, and this work was included in it.
This is an original antique print produced at that time.
*This item has a defect in the bottom left corner (see photo).
Information
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Artist : Aubrey Beardsley
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Title of work : Puck on Pegasus (frontispiece of "Savoy")
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Production year : 1900
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Technique : Line block (line drawing printing)
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Size : Work approx. 28.1 x 21.4 cm
(Frame not included) -
Artist / Title : Aubrey Beardsley / Puck (from The Savoy )
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From Plate 119
Related links
Beardsley's illustrated covers from the same period are also featured below:
Framing options
This work is normally offered unframed, but upon request, we are happy to offer custom framing options at our gallery.
The content is focused on UV-blocking acrylic and artistic harmony. For details and prices, please click here.
▶ [Framing plan information (PDF)]
When ordering, please write "I would like it framed" or feel free to contact us.
Framing options
This work is usually provided unframed so that you can enjoy the original charm of the work as it is, taking into consideration the preservation of the paper and its use as a collection.
If desired, we offer a custom framing plan (additional charge) in which we will select and suggest a frame for you. We can frame your work with consideration for artistic balance, the color of the work, and harmony with your interior decor.
- Various frames available, including wooden frames and gold leaf decorated frames
- Uses UV-blocking acrylic (emphasis on preservation)
- Proposals based on your desired size and installation environment
When ordering, please indicate "framed" or contact us separately. We will help you find the perfect framing to bring out the best in your artwork.
The content is focused on UV-blocking acrylic and artistic harmony. For details and prices, please click here.
▶ [Framing Plan Information (PDF)]
About the condition
This work is an original antique print created over 100 years ago.
All works sold by Rivoli Antiques are genuine pieces of artistic value printed at the time, and are not later reproductions or copies.
Due to their nature, antique prints rarely come with individual certificates of authenticity like contemporary works.
Therefore, where you buy and who is in charge of selecting the works are of utmost importance.
At Rivoli Antiques, we carefully select our items based on the trust we have built through many years of collaboration with museums and experts.
We only introduce works that you can safely add to your collection.
Natural fading and stains may appear over time, but these are also proof of the era the piece has passed through and are elements that convey the texture of the materials and techniques used to create it.
You can also come and see the paintings in person at the gallery to check their condition, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
About the store and reliability
At Rivoli Antiques, we have a track record of lending works to the Tokyo National Museum and the British Museum, and we present works according to museum-level selection criteria.
We have established a system that allows you to purchase and collect with peace of mind.
Please feel free to contact us for collection creation or consultation.
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