The work titled Great Opera Concerts: Ambroise Thomas Attending a Rehearsal of Françoise de Rimini, executed after Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, dates to 1896. Classified as a print, this piece reflects the sophisticated reproductive technologies of the late 19th century in France. The specific medium is a color lithographic reproduction of a photorelief print, meticulously executed on grayish wove chine. This complex layering of techniques allowed for the mass reproduction and dissemination of images related to the vibrant cultural life of Paris, a scene which Lautrec so often chronicled.
This image captures the renowned French composer Ambroise Thomas observing a rehearsal of his opera Françoise de Rimini. Toulouse-Lautrec, known for his incisive, almost journalistic eye, frequently focused on the behind-the-scenes moments and social interactions within the theatrical and musical world, providing candid glimpses of performers and celebrities. As a print published during the era of the Belle Époque, Great Opera Concerts: Ambroise Thomas Attending a Rehearsal of Françoise de Rimini speaks to the burgeoning market for accessible art related to popular culture. Many original works by Lautrec, reflecting his mastery of lithography, remain highly sought after, and this period piece offers crucial insight into his printmaking practice. Today, as many works created by this influential French artist enter the public domain, pieces like this color reproduction housed in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago continue to serve as essential historical and artistic references.