At the Concert

At the Concert by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901) is a significant example of fin-de-siècle graphic arts that captures the unique ambiance of Parisian nightlife. Created in 1896, this work is a color zincograph, a technically demanding form of printmaking related closely to lithography, executed on delicate grayish-ivory laid chine paper. Lautrec’s selection of medium reflects his embrace of commercial processes, which allowed him to disseminate his observations widely and contribute to the vibrant print culture flourishing in France during the late nineteenth century.

Lautrec consistently focused his artistic lens on the world of entertainment and public leisure, documenting the performers and patrons of the music halls and café-concerts. This print likely depicts a scene glimpsed in an auditorium, where blurred figures and dramatic, artificial lighting define the mood rather than precise portraiture. The composition, characterized by cropped forms and an oblique viewpoint, emphasizes the spontaneous, candid nature of the moment. Lautrec used color not just for decoration but to define depth and atmosphere, achieving a sense of immediacy essential to his style.

This print is particularly valued among graphic arts historians for its technical mastery and its cultural context within Belle Époque France. The artist's innovative approach to design, merging high art sensibilities with the graphic strength of posters, ensures the continued relevance of the work for historical research. Today, this master print is held in the distinguished permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.