Artwork

Lucien Guitry

Lucien Guitry, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896
Lucien Guitry, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896

Lucien Guitry is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

This was made in 1896 as a lithograph, meaning it was drawn on a stone and printed.

This sketch shows a man with a mustache and curly hair, turned slightly away. His collar is visible, and the lines are loose, almost sketchy. The paper looks textured, and the drawing is all in black.

The artist used a quick, rough style—just enough to catch the face and posture. This was made in 1896 as a lithograph, meaning it was drawn on a stone and printed.

Check out lithography to see how artists like this made prints.

Overview

This 1896 lithograph by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec depicts the actor Lucien Guitry. Created on hand-made paper, it showcases the artist's skill in printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait is part of Toulouse-Lautrec's series of theatrical portraits, reflecting his fascination with Parisian entertainment culture. Lucien Guitry, the subject, was an actor, and the work captures his likeness in a moment of quiet contemplation.

Technique & Style

The lithograph features loose, sketchy lines in black, conveying a sense of spontaneity. The textured paper adds to the work's tactile quality, while the rough style effectively captures the subject's face and posture.

History & Provenance

Toulouse-Lautrec, born in 1864 to an aristocratic French family, was known for his depictions of Parisian nightlife and performers. This work dates to 1896, a period when he was actively engaged with the city's entertainment scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.