Salomé: A Tragedy in One Act by Oscar Wilde, featuring original illustrations by Aubrey Beardsley, was first published in 1893 in French, followed by an English translation in 1906. This dramatic work is a retelling of the biblical story of Salome, the stepdaughter of King Herod, and her infamous dance of the seven veils, which ultimately leads to the beheading of John the Baptist.

The play, written in a single act, explores themes of desire, manipulation, and the consequences of unchecked passion. Wilde’s lyrical, poetic dialogue creates an atmosphere of decadence and eroticism, highlighting the tragic nature of Salome’s obsession with the prophet. Wilde’s exploration of the complex interplay between innocence and sensuality makes Salomé one of his most provocative and haunting works.

Aubrey Beardsley’s illustrations for the book, created in his signature black-and-white Art Nouveau style, are integral to the atmosphere of the play. His striking, sometimes stark images perfectly complement the sensual and darkly dramatic tone of Wilde’s writing. Beardsley’s illustrations are celebrated for their bold lines, symbolic imagery, and the erotic and decadent sensibility they bring to Wilde’s work.

Salomé with Beardsley’s illustrations remains an iconic collaboration between two great figures of the Aesthetic Movement, representing the intersection of art and literature in late 19th-century London. It is still regarded as a masterpiece of both theatrical writing and visual art, appealing to those interested in Wilde’s exploration of beauty, decadence, and tragic consequences.