Customer Reviews

Aubrey Beardsley, Dandy of the Grotesque

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Firstly, I feel it important to say that this book is not necessarily for the viewer with only a lightweight, or passing, interest in Aubrey Beardsley - it is a very deep, involved study of the man, as well as of his work. That said, I will say that for the Beardsley fanatic, it is an absolute must-read.
I have read many books on Beardsley, and none reach into his work so deeply as this. The book provides a psychological study, as its basis for review of Beardsley's greatest works. While it does focus on the man's self-identification as a dandy, other facets of his complex personality are also brought to attention, and analyzed. Chris Snodgrass approaches such an endeavor with some detachment, but it is quite clear that he is anything but lukewarm towards Aubrey Beardsley and his art - rather, his admiration for both is apparent.
I would not recommend this book as a first read for the budding Beardsleyite - rather, I'd go with Matthew Sturgis' wonderful biography. This book seems to assume that the reader is already intimately familiar with Beardsley's life story, and also intimately familiar with his works. If you fit in this category, please give this book a read - its value cannot be underestimated. An indispensible reference, and never a dull moment.