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The Laundress, 1888. Creator: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901)
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The Laundress, 1888. Creator: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901)
The Laundress, 1888. Toulouse-Lautrec made this drawing as an illustration for an article on " Summer in Paris" published in Paris illustre, a magazine popular among the middle classes. Although the article singled out the laundress as a charming object of the male gaze on the streets of the city, the stooping posture and dark-circled eyes of this figure give her a haggard look that invites comparison with the workhorse behind her. The sharp receding perspective emphasizes the act of street-level spectatorship. A mans top hat visible in the coach behind the woman alludes to her subservient social and sexual role
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Media ID 19644106
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1864 1901 Henri De Toulouse Lautrec Henri De Toulouse Lautrec French
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The Laundress, 1888
EDITORS COMMENTS
by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec captures the essence of a working-class woman in Paris during the late 19th century. This black and gray wash drawing, with white paint scratched away in places, portrays a figure that is both captivating and haunting. Originally created as an illustration for an article on "Summer in Paris" this piece highlights the laundress as an object of male gaze on the bustling streets of the city. However, upon closer inspection, one cannot help but notice her stooping posture and dark-circled eyes, which give her a haggard appearance reminiscent of the workhorse behind her. The sharp receding perspective adds depth to the scene while emphasizing street-level spectatorship. In addition, a man's top hat visible in the coach behind her serves as a subtle reminder of her subservient social and sexual role within society. Toulouse-Lautrec's attention to detail and skillful execution bring forth not only visual beauty but also evoke emotions and provoke thought. Through this artwork, he sheds light on societal dynamics at play during that era. This print from Heritage Art/Heritage Images offers viewers a glimpse into history through artistry. It invites contemplation about class divisions, gender roles, and labor conditions prevalent during Toulouse-Lautrec's time.
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