Polaire 1897

This is Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s portrait of Polaire. Toulouse-Lautrec made many artworks depicting performers of the time. In this portrait, Polaire’s face is cast in shadow, with light illuminating her distinctive up-swept hairstyle. Her gaze is directed upwards, hinting at a sense of longing or reflection. Polaire was a celebrated performer in fin-de-siècle Paris, known for her eccentric style and unconventional beauty. Her fame came from playing roles that emphasized her exoticized appearance. As a public figure, Polaire cultivated a unique and androgynous persona that challenged prevailing gender norms. She once said, "I am an actress, a clown, a woman of the world." Toulouse-Lautrec often depicted marginalized figures of Parisian society. This portrait captures Polaire’s enigmatic allure and individuality. Consider how the artist highlights the emotional and performative dimensions of her identity. In this way, this portrait offers a glimpse into a complex intersection of gender, performance, and representation.