Coquelin the Elder (Coquelin aine)

Coquelin the Elder (Coquelin aine) by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created in 1896, is an exemplary work of late 19th-century graphic art. Executed as a lithograph in black, this print captures the intense likeness of Benoît-Constant Coquelin (Coquelin aîné), the legendary French actor celebrated for originating the role of Cyrano de Bergerac. The artwork provides a crucial visual document of Parisian celebrity culture during the dynamic period spanning 1876 to 1900, a time when Toulouse-Lautrec was shifting the paradigm of modern visual communication.

Toulouse-Lautrec was uniquely skilled in the medium of lithography, employing simplified, powerful lines and high contrast to convey the essence of his subjects without distraction. Unlike the artist's famous color posters, this image restricts itself to stark black ink, placing intense focus on the actor’s expression and theatrical presence. This choice underscores the dramatic personality of Coquelin, renowned for his highly expressive stage interpretations. The economy of line characteristic of Toulouse-Lautrec’s style gives the print a striking immediacy, positioning it outside the polished conventions of traditional portraiture.

As a major contributor to the Post-Impressionist movement in France, Toulouse-Lautrec utilized the reproducibility of prints to record and disseminate images of modern life. This type of intimate portrait reflects his profound interest in the personalities who defined the cultural landscape of the era. The status of this important work as a classic print ensures its inclusion in major institutional holdings. This original example resides within the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, allowing it to be widely studied and appreciated. Given the age and historical significance of the piece, images of this work are often made available through public domain resources, ensuring continued accessibility for researchers and enthusiasts worldwide.