At the Circus Fernando: Medrano with a Piglet is a pivotal work by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, executed during the period 1884-1894. Classified technically as a drawing despite its medium of oil on paper laid down on board, this unique piece captures the vibrant, fleeting moments of Parisian nightlife that defined the artist’s output in France during the fin de siècle. Toulouse-Lautrec, deeply engrossed in the entertainment world, frequently documented the performers, patrons, and backstages of popular venues, particularly the famed Circus Fernando. The rapid, gestural application of the oil paint suggests the immediacy with which he sought to capture the atmosphere and essential character of his subjects.
The central figure is Joseph "Boum-Boum" Medrano, a renowned clown and equestrian at the circus. Instead of depicting Medrano during a polished performance, Toulouse-Lautrec focuses on an intimate, slightly absurd moment-the clown in his formal costume, holding a small piglet. This focus on the off-stage reality, revealing the vulnerability or complexity behind the performing facade, is a hallmark of Toulouse-Lautrec’s observational genius. The quick, loose brushwork emphasizes expression and movement over detailed realism, reflecting the influence of Impressionism while maintaining the sharp observational qualities essential to the artist's works in poster design.
This oil sketch exemplifies Toulouse-Lautrec's dedication to documenting the marginal figures and nocturnal scenes of French culture with candid precision. Today, the work is highly valued for its historical documentation of the late nineteenth-century entertainment industry. Digital reproductions of artworks like At the Circus Fernando: Medrano with a Piglet often enter the public domain, allowing scholars and enthusiasts worldwide to study the artist’s unique vision. This seminal piece is held in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, serving as a crucial example of drawing integrated with painting techniques.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.