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Despair amidst gaiety

© Douglas Russell

In considering the work of Toulouse-Lautrec, perhaps a distinction can be made between his work as an artist, producing paintings and various illustrations, and his work as a designer of posters. Although there are certain features common to both, they frequently show a contrast in style and subject matter. His paintings often project a graphic, stark realism. So many of his people are the downtrodden, the weary and the unfortunate. Instead of enjoying life, they seem to be merely surviving a grim existence. The artist has caught them in a passing moment in the midst of despair. Many have clearly seen better days, and their pathetic circumstances arouse our sense of pity. Some, though, kindle a sense of revulsion.

Possibly because they were designed for commercial purposes, the impact of his posters is often less harsh and more pleasing to the eye than the images so common in his paintings. Their appeal is quite strong, although some of them can still be quite frank. Unlike the almost stereotypical images of Jules Cheret, which so frequently portray gay, almost bubbly characters, Lautrec's people do not appear to be particularly happy, and he does not attempt to flatter them. They seem to reflect a distinct sadness. There are few smiling faces here, as life seems to be almost painful, something to be endured rather than enjoyed. Nevertheless, the artist's work was popular and praised by many.

Lautrec's 1891 poster promoting the attractions of the world-famous Moulin Rouge was highly successful and is quite appealing and forceful in its conception. Against a pale red and yellow background, two of the music hall's stars are highlighted: the flamboyant Louise Weber, known as "La Goulue," -- the glutton -- is shown facing to the right, with her right leg arched in a high kick, petticoats flashing broadly. In the foreground, in profile facing left, is her tall, angular and frequent dancing partner, Valentin Desosse, celebrated in his own right for his dexterity on the dance floor. Various patrons are silhouetted in black in the background. Of interest regarding this particular poster is that a photograph of the time shows the front of the music hall, with Lautrec's poster on the sidewalk in front! Also, in 1990, nearly a quarter of a million dollars was paid for an original -- the highest price ever paid for an original poster.

In 1892, the artist created one of his impressive posters of Aristide Bruant in his cabaret. This is a bright, colorful work with red and purple and blue and yellow, all distinctly separated. The massive form of the entertainer fills virtually the entire frame. His determined, perhaps haughty expression dominates the field. With his large hat and walking stick, he appears quite purposeful in his demeanor. Some have remarked on the enigmatic silhouette of a man in the background, but perhaps he is nothing more than an interested spectator. The poster's impact is undeniable, however, and shows great strength.

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