At the Théâtre de la Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in Phèdre

At the Théâtre de la Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in Phèdre is a powerful portrait created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1893. This specific rendering is a photo mechanical reproduction of a lithograph on machine wove paper, representing the only state produced of the graphic work. Toulouse-Lautrec frequently documented the vibrant nightlife and entertainment culture of fin-de-siècle Paris, particularly focusing on the celebrated figures of the stage. The subject, Sarah Bernhardt, was arguably the most famous actress of the era, known for her intense dramatic performances, here specifically portraying the title role in Racine's 17th-century tragedy, Phèdre.

The artist specialized in capturing the raw energy and often unvarnished reality of his subjects. In this print, Lautrec utilizes strong, expressive lines and a sense of immediacy characteristic of his graphic works. The composition captures the actress during a moment of dramatic tension, emphasizing the powerful stage presence that made Bernhardt a global icon. Unlike idealized studio portraits, Toulouse-Lautrec’s approach emphasizes her intensity and labor rather than conventional beauty, reflecting his interest in contemporary women actively engaged in professional roles.

As a reproduction of one of his original lithographs, this piece is classified as a print, demonstrating Lautrec's influence in the burgeoning field of commercial and theatrical posters during the 1890s. These influential prints helped define modern graphic design, bridging high art with commercial advertising. While the original matrix for such works often exists in limited editions, quality reproductions of historically significant art often enter the public domain over time, allowing for wider study and appreciation. This impression of At the Théâtre de la Renaissance: Sarah Bernhardt in Phèdre is held within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.