Bust of Mademoiselle Marcelle Lender (Mademoiselle Marcelle Lender, en buste) 1895

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec created this print, "Bust of Mademoiselle Marcelle Lender," using lithography. The composition captivates with its intimate portrayal, defined by soft, swirling forms and a muted color palette. Notice how Lautrec employs a reductive approach, simplifying the figure into essential lines and shapes, which is typical for lithographs. The flatness of the print enhances the overall decorative quality, a key element of the Art Nouveau aesthetic. The patterns in the background and the dress, along with the feathery hat, create a sense of movement and texture, contrasting with the smooth, pale skin of the subject. This work speaks to the semiotic function of art in the late 19th century, where representations of performers became symbols of modernity and artistic innovation. Lautrec's focus on form and line allows the figure to transcend a mere likeness, becoming an emblem of the era’s cultural codes and artistic experimentation. The print invites us to consider how artists use formal elements to communicate broader cultural meanings.