Désiré Dihau

Désiré Dihau is a significant portrait print created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901 in 1895. This sophisticated image was executed as a color lithograph on cream wove paper, demonstrating the artist’s groundbreaking approach to graphic media. During the late 19th century in France, lithography experienced a profound revitalization, enabling artists like Toulouse-Lautrec to produce highly nuanced and widely distributed images, effectively blurring the lines between fine art and popular poster design. The inherent spontaneity and flexibility of the medium allowed Lautrec to achieve the expressive lines and immediate energy characteristic of his work.

The subject of this piece is Désiré Dihau (1833-1909), a respected bassoonist and composer who was a long-time acquaintance within the artist's influential circle. Toulouse-Lautrec was renowned for his incisive, candid portrayals of Parisian nocturnal life, particularly the performers and musicians of Montmartre’s theaters and concert halls. This work captures the sitter with directness, emphasizing character through minimal yet deliberate detail and a masterful application of color blocking.

This aesthetic approach reflects the cultural shift in 1890s France, moving away from academic painting toward a focus on immediate social observation and psychological depth. Works such as this are foundational examples of Post-Impressionist graphic arts, demonstrating Toulouse-Lautrec’s technical skill in handling complex prints. The enduring importance and quality of this lithograph are confirmed by its status as part of the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Désiré Dihau remains a key illustration of Lautrec’s legacy in documenting the vibrant social history of his era.