Tête de femme (Head of a Woman), also known as ‘Portrait of Mlle. Lender’
Original print, drypoint/etching on paper • Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864–1901)
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Art Nouveau / Belle Époque
Medium & Technique
Drypoint on zinc or copper plate. The technique utilizes a sharp needle to scratch lines directly into the metal, creating a 'burr' that produces the characteristic soft, velvety lines seen in the figure's garments.
Creation Period
Circa 1894
Dimensions & Format
Small format portrait; plate size approximately 25 x 20 cm (10 x 8 inches) on a larger sheet. Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
The work depicts a woman, likely the actress Marcelle Lender, in a moment of repose or contemplation. The composition is characterized by minimalist, fluid lines that emphasize the silhouette and facial expression over detailed anatomical modeling. The subject's head is tilted upward with eyes closed, evoking a sense of internal emotion or exhaustion.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The print shows visible plate tone and clear definition of the drypoint lines. However, visible mat burn and slight yellowing/oxidation of the paper are present at the edges near the mount.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 – $3,500 USD (Highly dependent on edition, paper type, and whether it is a lifetime pull).
Auction Estimate
$1,000 – $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown specific history based on image. Prints of this series were often published in limited editions (such as for 'Le Rire' or by Goupil & Cie). Absence of a visible red monogram stamp suggest it may be from a later state or a posthumous edition.
Art Historical Significance
Toulouse-Lautrec's graphic work revolutionized modern printmaking. His ability to capture the psychological state of Parisian nightlife figures through sparse, Japanese-inspired line work is epitomized in this drypoint series. It reflects his transition from commercial poster art to more intimate, expressive fine art prints.
Notable Features
Features the artist's characteristic use of 'negative space' and 'empty' areas to focus the viewer's eye on the subject's face. The soft blurred texture of the hair and the heavy weight of the line in the cloak are classic indicators of Lautrec's drypoint style.
Condition Issues
Visible mat burn (darkening of paper where it meets the acid in the mount), minor foxing potential, and some rippling of the paper support. Plate marks are well-preserved, but the margins appear trimmed or obscured by the current framing.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current acidic mount and re-frame using museum-quality acid-free materials (hinge mounting with Japanese tissue). UV-filtering glass is recommended to prevent further darkening of the paper fibers.