Sketchbook, 1880

The Sketchbook, 1880 by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901) offers a crucial perspective on the development of the renowned post-Impressionist artist during his formative years. Classified simply as a Book, this collection consists of 47 individual leaves, including the end sheets, utilized extensively as a spontaneous repository for preliminary studies and ideas. The drawings employ a mixed media approach, primarily relying on pencil and black grease crayon, which provides a rich textural contrast, occasionally supplemented by the delicate addition of pen and ink and watercolor. This volume captures Toulouse-Lautrec’s burgeoning talent as he trained in France.

Reflecting the artist’s economical and intensive drawing practice, the sketchbook features compositions on both sides of nearly every leaf, with only seven sheets left untouched. The blending of materials highlights Lautrec’s rapid draftsmanship and keen observational skills, essential qualities that would define his later depictions of Parisian life. Unlike the finished canvases or iconic lithographic posters and prints for which he is most known, this assemblage of drawings provides direct, unvarnished insight into the artist’s working process.

This early material is vital to scholars seeking to understand the progression of Lautrec’s style, bridging the gap between academic study and the innovative compositions he achieved as a mature artist. While many of the great works from the height of the artist’s fame have since entered the public domain, this intimate record of artistic growth remains protected. This indispensable resource for the study of the artist’s methodology is proudly held in the comprehensive collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.