Calmèse's Little Pony

Calmèse's Little Pony by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, is a significant example of French printmaking created in 1898. This intimate work is a lithograph printed on cream wove paper, showcasing the artist’s characteristic mastery of the medium. Lautrec, a central figure in Post-Impressionism, focused his prolific career on documenting the vibrant social and theatrical scenes of turn-of-the-century Paris. He utilized lithography extensively to create not only large-scale posters but also delicate illustrations and small studies, effectively moving the graphic arts into the realm of fine art in France.

The technical challenge of depicting a specific animal subject, such as the pony referred to in the title, allows the artist to focus intensely on line economy and captured movement, elements characteristic of his mature style. Unlike his famous portrayals of Moulin Rouge dancers or cabaret singers, this piece offers a quiet study, though executed with the same incisive quality and attention to form that defined his oeuvre. Lautrec’s economical use of line conveys texture and depth without relying on heavy shading, highlighting the artistic potential inherent in the print medium.

This lithograph demonstrates Toulouse-Lautrec’s enduring influence on graphic design and the subsequent elevated appreciation of fine art prints. The work resides in the distinguished permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. While the original impression is preserved there, the enduring legacy of this Post-Impressionist master means that high-resolution images of his influential works, including this and similar Calmèse's Little Pony prints, are frequently made available in the public domain for global study and appreciation.