Cover for Les Courtes Joies

"Cover for Les Courtes Joies," created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, in 1897, is a sophisticated example of late 19th-century French lithography. The print was executed as a lithograph over a fawn tint, utilizing ink applied from a second stone to achieve a subtle, warm color base on the grayish laid china paper. This careful layering reflects the technical innovations and graphic brilliance characterizing Toulouse-Lautrec's career, particularly his mastery of the poster medium.

Working primarily in Paris during the Belle Époque, Toulouse-Lautrec was renowned for capturing the essence of contemporary metropolitan life, often focusing on commercial and theatrical subjects. This specific cover, designed for a publication or portfolio titled Les Courtes Joies, demonstrates the artist’s characteristic economical line work and dynamic composition. His prolific output in prints dramatically transformed the perception of posters and graphic art in France, elevating commercial works to high art status.

Produced just four years before his death, this work confirms Toulouse-Lautrec's command of the lithographic process, which allowed for the relatively rapid and widespread distribution of his compelling images. The piece currently resides in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it is preserved as part of their comprehensive holding of turn-of-the-century prints. As a historically significant work created by the French master, the original print and high-quality reproductions are frequently encountered within the public domain for scholarly research and appreciation.