This illustration by Aubrey Beardsley for Oscar Wilde’s 1894 Salome is titled “The Climax” and depicts Salome as she kisses the decapitated head of Jokanaan. She floats above the ground holding the head as a stream of blood pours and pools below, out of which grows a lily flower. Protruding from her back appear to be black wings. Beardsley presents an androgynous mirroring of Salome and Jokanaan, reflecting decadent thematic interest in sexual nonconformity. Salome and Jokanaan both sport snaky hair, Jokanaan’s decapitated state presents parallels to stories of Perseus and Medusa. Japanese artistic influence is identifiable in Beardsley’s drawing of Salome’s body and the androgynous faces.
Beardsley, Aubrey. The Climax. 1893, Victoria and Albert Museum, London. A Portfolio of Aubrey Beardsley's drawings illustrating 'Salome' by Oscar Wilde, John Lane 1907, plate XV.