Jane Avril

Jane Avril is a vibrant 5-color lithograph created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1899. This striking French poster, executed on thin wove paper, captures the essence of the Parisian cabaret culture that defined the late 19th century period (1876 to 1900). The subject is the famous dancer, Jane Avril, known for her elegant yet eccentric performances at venues like the Moulin Rouge and the Jardin de Paris. This piece functions both as commercial advertising and a powerful artistic statement.

Toulouse-Lautrec was a pivotal figure in transforming the lithographic print into a respected art form, elevating the medium beyond mere public announcement. This work utilizes five distinct colors to achieve a dynamic visual impact, a technical necessity for capturing attention in the busy urban environment of the time. The immediacy of the composition, marked by simplified forms and bold outlines, reflects the influence of Japanese woodblock designs, widely studied by contemporary French artists. As a consistent chronicler of Montmartre life, Toulouse-Lautrec specialized in distilling the dynamic energy and unique personalities of the era’s celebrated performers and entertainers into highly stylized graphic works.

The creation of this specific work near the close of the 19th century demonstrates Toulouse-Lautrec’s enduring commitment to the medium, even toward the end of his career. Jane Avril remains a highly recognizable and crucial image, embodying the sophisticated, often decadent spirit of the Belle Époque. This important print resides within the esteemed collection of the National Gallery of Art. Because of its date of creation and cultural significance, high-resolution reproductions of this artwork are frequently accessible for study and personal use as part of the growing body of works designated in the public domain.