The Sea Swallows (Les hirondelles de mer) from- Quatorze lithographies originales (Mélodies de Désiré Dihau)

The Sea Swallows (Les hirondelles de mer) from- Quatorze lithographies originales (Mélodies de Désiré Dihau) is a significant example of the printmaking work of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Created in 1895, this piece is a lithograph, illustrating Lautrec’s dedicated practice within the field of graphic arts. It functions as a component of an Illustrated Book, often referred to in French as a livre d'artiste, which contained a series of original lithographs intended to accompany musical compositions or poetry by Désiré Dihau. This collaborative publication, though conceived in 1895, was finally published in 1935.

Toulouse-Lautrec, a master chronicler of Parisian life during the 1890s, brought his characteristic economy of line and evocative use of form to this print. While many of his famous compositions depict the vibrant cabaret culture of Montmartre, this illustration demonstrates his versatility, adapting his fluid, expressive style to a more introspective, literary, or musical theme. The medium of the lithograph allowed him to achieve rich, painterly effects while producing multiples intended for a small, specialized audience. This work, originating from the French artistic culture of the late 19th century, provides insight into the sophisticated print market and the dynamic relationship between visual art and music prevalent in that period.

Classified as an Illustrated Book, the artwork highlights the complex process of artistic publication across decades; it was conceived in 1895 but released four decades later in 1935. This delay reflects the inherent challenges often associated with producing specialized fine art prints. Today, the work is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), recognizing its importance as both an independent graphic work and as a crucial element within Toulouse-Lautrec’s broader print oeuvre. The presence of pieces like The Sea Swallows (Les hirondelles de mer) in major public collections ensures that Toulouse-Lautrec’s enduring influence on modern graphic arts remains accessible for scholarly study and public appreciation.