V. Chanson Ancienne
Original title: V. Chanson Ancienne
kurzbeschreibung
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec made this lithograph, V. Chanson Ancienne, in 1898. It shows a seated person holding a pipe and wearing a flower in her hair. Printed with a beige tint stone on laid paper, the sheet measures 56.7 x 38.1 cm.
Description
A figure sits on a chair in profile, pipe in mouth, hair adorned with a blossom. She wears a long-sleeved dress. The layout centers entirely on this sitter; color stays restrained, dominated by a warm beige. Diffuse light creates a quiet mood. The style blends impressionist and symbolist traits, evident in simplified form and emphasized line.
Context
The lithograph dates from 1898, a period when Toulouse-Lautrec devoted himself heavily to printmaking. It belongs to a series of prints for the journal L'Estampe originale, which promoted original graphic work. The sitter, V. Chanson, was likely a singer or dancer from the Parisian entertainment world the artist often portrayed. The beige tint stone served to give the print a warmer color effect.
Impact
The sheet conveys a calm, intimate atmosphere arising from soft light and muted color. Simplified form and clear line give the print a plain elegance that holds the viewer's gaze.
Technique
The lithograph was printed with a beige tint stone on laid paper. This method allowed Toulouse-Lautrec to combine fine lines with flat areas of color. The tint stone was used in addition to black ink to achieve a gentle tonality.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)