Alone is a captivating painting by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created in 1896. It is a sketch and study in oil and cardboard that depicts a solitary figure leaning against the wall, with her head tilted downwards. The subject has been identified as an anonymous woman who worked at Montmartre, the working-class district of Paris where Toulouse-Lautrec resided.
Toulouse-Lautrec was known for his vibrant artworks that often featured Parisian nightlife and entertainment industry. However, “Alone” portrays a rare moment of introspection, with its somber tone and muted color scheme. The way the woman is depicted reflects Toulouse-Lautrec’s sensitivity to human emotion.
The artist’s fascination with horses can also be observed in the painting through the horsehair brush used to create it. This adds texture to the artwork and emphasizes its emotional depth. Collectors have valued this work highly due to its rarity; only two versions exist: one housed at Musée d’Orsay in Paris and another at elsewhere which has not been displayed since 1937.
In conclusion, “Alone” represents Toulouse-Lautrec’s departure from his usual subjects and style while still incorporating his trademark use of color, movement, and human emotion.
