Artwork

At the Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in "Phedre" (A la Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt dans "Phèdre")

At the Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in "Phedre" (A la Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt dans "Phèdre") is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. It dates from 1893 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

At the Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in 'Phedre' is a lithograph created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1893. The print is in black on velin paper and depicts a scene from a theatrical performance.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph captures Sarah Bernhardt in a role from the classical play Phèdre. The image features Bernhardt in a flowing white dress, standing beside a figure in dark robes, conveying a sense of drama and tension.

Technique & Style

Toulouse-Lautrec's use of lithography showcases his skill in capturing subtle variations in light and shadow. The contrast between the white dress and dark robes adds to the visual interest, highlighting the artist's ability to convey drama and elegance through simple yet effective means.

Artist & collection

Artist

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Comte Henri Marie Raymond de Toulouse-Lautrec-Montfa (24 November 1864 – 9 September 1901), known as Toulouse-Lautrec (French: ), was a French painter, printmaker, draughtsman, caricaturist, and illustrator.