The Jockey

The Jockey by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901), created in 1899, is a compelling color lithograph executed on ivory laid paper, showcasing the French artist’s mastery of the print medium late in his career. A defining figure of the post-Impressionist era, Toulouse-Lautrec pioneered the use of graphic arts, transforming the lithograph from a commercial tool into a significant artistic statement.

While the artist is perhaps most famous for his vibrant chronicles of Montmartre nightlife and the Moulin Rouge, this piece illustrates his deep engagement with another key facet of Parisian modern life: the culture of horse racing. Lautrec frequently visited the tracks, developing an observational eye for the intense energy of the sport. The composition focuses intimately on the rider, capturing the tension and swiftness characteristic of the track. The jockey is rendered with swift, expressive lines, emphasizing the figure’s silhouette against the subtly defined background.

The choice of color lithography allowed Lautrec to achieve the nuanced tones and broad fields of color seen in the work, which were essential for reproducing the atmosphere of his chosen subjects. The production of prints like The Jockey ensured the widespread dissemination of Lautrec’s unique aesthetic throughout France and beyond. Considered one of the last major subjects addressed by the artist before his death, this finished print encapsulates his observational genius and graphic skill. The work is classified as a print and is held in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, standing as an important example of public domain era French graphic arts.