Tailpiece from Au Pied du Sinaï

"Tailpiece from Au Pied du Sinaï" by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901, is an important example of French graphic arts from the Fin de Siècle era. Created in 1897, this piece is classified as a print, specifically a reproduction of a lithograph executed on cream wove paper. Lautrec was a recognized master of printmaking, consistently utilizing the expressive potential of line and dynamic composition that the lithographic process afforded. Although small, the tailpiece format demonstrates his versatility across media, illustrating his involvement with literary and commercial publishing projects in France.

Lautrec’s prints were known for their concise observation and distinct graphic quality, often capturing the ephemeral nature of modern Parisian life. Though the exact subject matter of this vignette remains intimate, his characteristic emphasis on strong contours and simplified forms aligns it stylistically with the burgeoning Art Nouveau movement of the late 1890s. The artist’s ability to imbue even small-scale illustrations with personality cemented his reputation as one of the most significant graphic artists of his generation.

The significance of this piece lies in its documentation of the 1864-1901 master's comprehensive artistic output, moving beyond his famous posters to include detailed book illustrations. This influential work is held within the extensive prints and drawings collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As a late 19th-century work, the composition is now widely accessible, frequently entering the public domain, allowing institutions worldwide to study and disseminate high-quality reproductions reflecting the enduring graphic genius of Lautrec.