Moulin de la Galette

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Created:
Movement:
1889
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Bohemian nightlife, Parisian dance hall
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Dimensions:
88.5 × 101.3 cm (35 7/8 × 39 5/8 in.); Framed: 109.3 × 123.2 × 12.1 cm (43 × 48 1/2 × 4 3/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Moulin de la Galette" is a painting by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created in 1889. The work depicts a lively scene at the Moulin de la Galette, a popular dance hall in the Montmartre district of Paris. Toulouse-Lautrec was known for his ability to capture the vibrant nightlife of Paris, and this painting exemplifies his focus on social interactions and the bohemian lifestyle of the late 19th century. The composition features a diverse group of patrons engaged in conversation and dance, highlighting the dynamic atmosphere of the venue. Toulouse-Lautrec employed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and expressive brushwork, which contributed to the sense of movement and energy in the scene. The painting is notable for its innovative use of perspective and the arrangement of figures, creating a sense of depth and intimacy. "Moulin de la Galette" is considered one of Toulouse-Lautrec's masterpieces and reflects his fascination with the culture of leisure and entertainment in Paris. The work is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.

Description of the work:

"Moulin de la Galette" by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is an oil on canvas painting that captures a lively scene at the famous dance hall located in the Montmartre district of Paris. The composition is characterized by a dynamic arrangement of figures engaged in social interaction, set against the backdrop of the iconic windmill structure. The use of vibrant colors and loose brushwork conveys a sense of movement and energy, reflecting the exuberance of the Parisian nightlife. The figures are depicted in various poses, some seated and others dancing, creating a sense of depth and layering within the scene. Toulouse-Lautrec employs a palette dominated by warm tones, with splashes of cooler colors that highlight specific elements, such as clothing and the surrounding environment. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures and the spatial complexity of the setting. The artist's distinctive style is evident in the exaggerated forms and expressive facial features of the patrons, which contribute to the overall atmosphere of conviviality and celebration. The painting serves as a significant representation of the Belle Époque era, encapsulating the cultural vibrancy of late 19th-century Paris.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Moulin de la Galette