HENRI DE TOULOUSE LAUTREC (1864-1901) MAY BELFORT. 1895. 313/4x241/4 inches. Kleinmann, Paris. Condition A: overpainting in top right margin. Being a true "original," Lautrec was known to suddenly go crazy for someone who amused or distracted him. May Belfort was an Irish performer who amused Lautrec with a singing act that went, "I've got a little cat, I'm very fond of that." The artist was so delighted by this ridiculous act that he designed a poster for her. It is a sensitive piece that shows far more artistry than one would normally expect to see in a commercial assignment. He uses an oblique line to create the illusion of a stage, a flat red for her gown that catches the eye, and delicate paintbrush, crachis and pen work to help create a sensitive portrait. It is a delicate image which shows Lautrec at his best. Delteil 354 I, Adriani 136 IV, Wittrock P 14 B.
