Cover for L'Estampe originale

The Cover for L'Estampe originale, created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1895, serves as the striking promotional face for the seminal French portfolio publication. L'Estampe originale (The Original Print) was a significant, short-lived quarterly journal published between 1893 and 1895, dedicated entirely to promoting the revival of fine art prints among serious collectors. The publication regularly featured original prints contributed by leading artists of the day, including Gauguin, Rodin, and Renoir.

This piece utilizes the vibrant medium of color lithograph printed on cream wove paper, expertly executed by Ancourt et Cie. in Paris. Toulouse-Lautrec was instrumental in elevating both poster art and lithography into a high art form throughout France. His characteristic style-featuring flat planes of color, sharp outlines derived partly from Japanese ukiyo-e prints, and dynamic compositional cropping-made him the natural choice to design the publication’s signature image. The work captures the essence of Parisian bohemian life, reflecting the artist’s dedication to documenting the society and ephemeral street art of the period.

This sophisticated work exemplifies the height of the printmaking renaissance of the late 19th century. Although commissioned for a specific commercial and artistic venture, the design for the cover remains one of the most recognizable graphic arts pieces by the artist. Toulouse-Lautrec’s influential body of work, particularly his prolific output of fine art prints, ensured his widespread public recognition. This important impression is preserved within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, contributing to the scholarship and appreciation of late nineteenth-century graphic arts, many works of which have now entered the public domain.