The Old Butterflies (Les vieux papillons) from Quatorze lithographies originales (Mélodies de Désiré Dihau) by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is a key example of the French graphic arts tradition flourishing at the fin-de-siècle. Created as a lithograph in 1895, the print belongs to the series Quatorze lithographies originales, a collection compiled around the melodies of Désiré Dihau, a musician frequently encountered in the artist’s circle. Though the composition was realized during the height of Toulouse-Lautrec's output, the complete compilation was formally published in 1935, demonstrating the sustained historical interest in the master’s graphic work decades after his passing.
Toulouse-Lautrec mastered the complex medium of lithography, using its capacity for fluid line work and subtle tonal variations to capture the nuanced atmosphere and characters of Parisian nightlife. As a keen chronicler of the French social scene, his subjects frequently included performers, aging figures of the demimonde, and scenes of intimate, often isolated, human moments. This piece, categorized as an Illustrated Book component, reflects the artist’s deep engagement with theatrical and personal subjects, evoking themes of fragility and fading celebrity suggested by the title The Old Butterflies. The accessibility of prints allowed the artist to disseminate his acute social commentary widely, moving art beyond the confines of the traditional easel painting.
The work further solidifies Toulouse-Lautrec’s reputation as a major figure in Post-Impressionism, particularly for his innovative contributions to the graphic arts during the 1890s. The artist’s legacy is defined by his penetrating observation and psychological depth, qualities that are fully evident in this original print from 1895, published 1935. This significant piece of cultural history is held within the distinguished collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where it helps anchor the understanding of late nineteenth-century French printmaking.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.