Yvette Guilbert

The work Yvette Guilbert, created by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901) in 1894, captures the celebrated cabaret singer and dancer who dominated the Parisian fin de siècle entertainment scene. This piece is a remarkable example of commercial artistry utilized for performance promotion, executed as a sophisticated color lithograph. The complex technique, utilizing both color lithography and letterpress on ivory laid paper, highlights Toulouse-Lautrec’s mastery of graphic arts and his profound influence on mass communication and poster design in 19th-century France.

Toulouse-Lautrec dedicated significant effort during the 1890s to documenting the vibrant, often scandalous, nightlife of Montmartre. Guilbert, instantly recognizable for her perpetually serious expression, stark makeup, and signature long black gloves, was a favored subject of the artist, appearing in numerous posters and programs. This print classification allowed Lautrec to disseminate his unique, stylized portraits widely, emphasizing the performer’s dynamic stage presence through sharp contours and carefully applied color. His compositions revolutionized modern advertising and established him as the foremost visual chronicler of the era's entertainment culture.

The medium of print ensured that images like this circulated widely, bringing the atmosphere of the French cabaret to a broader audience. As a crucial document of European graphic arts, this exceptional work resides within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Due to its age and historical significance, high-quality images of this masterwork are often made available through public domain initiatives, allowing scholars and enthusiasts worldwide access to these essential prints for study and appreciation.