Valentine Penrose was a French surrealist author whose work delved into the mysteries of mysticism, alchemy, and the occult. Her poetry, influenced by automatic writing and techniques such as frottage and fumage, often explores themes of female mysticism and esoteric knowledge. While best known for her biography of Elizabeth Báthory, her oeuvre also features striking collages and poetry collections that engage with personal relationships and femininity. Admired by Paul Éluard and André Breton, her work represents a unique vision within Surrealism.
Elizabeth Bathory genuinely believed that only by constant bathing in virgins' blood would she be able to retain her waning youthful good looks. Through her position of supreme, absolute power she was able to procure an endless number of victims.