Yahne in Her Box, in L'Age Difficile

Yahne in Her Box, in L'Age Difficile is a distinctive print created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901 in 1895. This striking work is executed using the demanding process of color lithography on ivory wove paper, showcasing the technical proficiency 1864-1901 achieved in graphic arts. Lautrec was instrumental in elevating the status of the lithograph from a commercial advertising craft to a recognized fine art form in late 19th-century France.

The piece captures a typical scene from the Parisian nightlife and performance culture that Lautrec frequented, particularly the theaters and cabarets. The subject, an actress or patron known as Yahne, is situated within the intimate yet highly visible confines of a theater box. This setting reflects the complex social dynamics of the period, where the audience was often as much on display as the performers. The composition employs stark contrasts and simplified forms, characteristic of Lautrec's mature style, allowing him to render the atmosphere and psychological state of his subject with remarkable economy.

Dating to the height of La Belle Époque, this lithograph provides valuable insight into French culture and the emerging modernity of the fin-de-siècle. Lautrec's mastery of the print medium greatly influenced subsequent generations of artists seeking expressive forms of mass communication. This historical artwork is classified as a print and resides in the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. High-quality reproductions of Lautrec's influential prints are frequently available for study and reference through public domain resources.