Polaire

The artwork Polaire by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, is a distinctive example of late 19th-century French lithography, executed in 1898. This compelling print utilizes the lithographic process on cream wove paper, showcasing the artist’s profound understanding of graphic media and commercial art. As a classification of prints, this piece highlights the enduring popularity of reproducible artwork and posters in turn-of-the-century France.

Lautrec, renowned for his penetrating observations of Parisian nightlife, focused much of his short career on documenting the performers, singers, and demimonde culture of the fin de siècle. This work specifically captures the actress and singer Polaire (Émilie Marie Bouchaud), a notable figure whose intense stage presence and eccentric style made her a favorite subject. Unlike many contemporary artists, Lautrec captured his subjects with psychological depth and immediacy, employing the flat planes of color and dynamic, calligraphic lines characteristic of the Art Nouveau movement and influenced by Japanese ukiyo-e prints.

The work reflects the unique artistic output of the 1864-1901 master, solidifying his reputation as a primary chronicler of modern urban life. While many of the artist’s celebrated pieces, including numerous prints, are widely reproduced today and often accessible as public domain assets, the original impression of Polaire is preserved and maintained within the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.