Chimeric
Painting on panel or paper mounted on support • Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901)
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Art Nouveau
Medium & Technique
Mixed media, likely gouache and watercolor or oil wash on paper
Creation Period
Late 19th century, circa 1895
Dimensions & Format
Medium-scale rectangular format, estimated at approximately 24 x 30 inches
Subject Description
A theatrical or cabaret scene depicting performers on stage, featuring a central female dancer kicking up her ruffled pink skirt with a feathered hat, surrounded by other actors and spectators in period or theatrical costumes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair. Noticeable vertical crack or tear down the center right, surface abrasions, craquelure, and handling creases visible across the paper/board.
Estimated Market Value
Unevaluated / Verification Required due to condition and authenticity parameters
Auction Estimate
Unevaluated / Verification Required
Provenance History
Formerly in the Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John Hay Whitney, New York; subsequent private collections.
Art Historical Significance
Reflects Toulouse-Lautrec's fascination with Parisian nightlife, cabaret culture, and theatrical performance, capturing the bohemian atmosphere of Montmartre.
Notable Features
Distinctive Toulouse-Lautrec character stylings, vivid use of theatrical lighting and color palette, historic Whitney collection association.
Condition Issues
Prominent vertical structural fissure running through the right side of the composition, surface dirt, foxing or staining, and possible lifting or creasing of the paper medium.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional paper/painting conservation required to stabilize the central tear, clean the surface, and store in UV-protected, climate-controlled environments with acid-free matting.
Collector Notes
Chimeric by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901 Collection Mr and Mrs John Hay Whitney, New York