Combing Their Hair
Original title: Combing Their Hair
kurzbeschreibung
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec made this two-color lithograph in 1896. It captures a woman seen from behind, combing her hair at a washbasin with a mirror. Brown tones dominate, creating an intimate, quiet atmosphere.
Description
The woman appears from the back, her hair falling in a loose strand over one shoulder. She wears a simple top that leaves her shoulder bare. A washbasin and a mirror suggest a bathroom setting. Light from the front highlights the outlines of the woman and the mirror. The palette stays within shades of brown, contours are clear, and the lithographic technique is evident.
Context
This print dates from 1896, a period when Toulouse-Lautrec was deeply engaged with Parisian nightlife and private moments of everyday life. He often portrayed women in intimate situations, inspired by the residents of brothels he frequented. The two-color print was part of his experimental approach to printmaking, which he pursued throughout the 1890s.
Impact
The subdued colors and calm arrangement produce a still, almost meditative mood. The view from behind feels observant without being intrusive, creating closeness and intimacy. Crisp lines and the texture of the lithograph give the sheet a tangible materiality.
Technique
For this print, lithography was done in two colors, each requiring a separate stone. The contours stand out sharply, while the tones remain in brown shades. The process allows precise rendering of shadows and structures, as seen in the hair and fabric.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)