Woman before a Mirror

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Created:
Movement:
1897
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Intimate Reflection, Post-Impressionist Portrait
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Dimensions:
24 1/2 x 18 1/2 in. (62.2 x 47 cm)
medium:
Oil on cardboard
story of the work:

"Woman before a Mirror" is a painting by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec created in 1897. The work depicts a woman gazing at her reflection in a mirror, capturing themes of self-perception and femininity. Toulouse-Lautrec was known for his focus on the lives of women in Parisian society, particularly those in the entertainment industry. The painting is characterized by its bold colors and expressive brushwork, typical of Toulouse-Lautrec's style. The identity of the woman in the painting is unknown, as is the specific context in which it was created. The work is part of the collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Toulouse-Lautrec's exploration of the human figure and emotional depth is evident in this piece, contributing to his reputation as a significant figure in post-impressionism.

Description of the work:

"Woman before a Mirror" by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created in 1897, is an oil painting on cardboard that depicts a female figure in a moment of introspection. The composition features a woman seated before a large mirror, her gaze directed towards her reflection. The use of bold colors and expressive brushwork characterizes Toulouse-Lautrec's style, with a predominance of warm tones that enhance the intimate atmosphere of the scene. The figure is rendered with a sense of fluidity, emphasizing the contours of her body and the drapery of her clothing. The mirror reflects not only the woman but also the surrounding space, creating a dialogue between the subject and her environment. The background is less detailed, allowing the viewer's focus to remain on the woman and her reflection. The overall composition conveys a sense of vulnerability and self-examination, typical of Toulouse-Lautrec's exploration of modern life and the human condition.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Woman before a Mirror