The artwork entitled “Combing” is a significant piece by the renowned artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who was an influential figure in the Post-Impressionism movement. As a genre painting, this work captures a moment of everyday life, presenting an intimate glimpse into a personal activity. Toulouse-Lautrec’s style is characterized by bold compositions and a vivid portrayal of the modern life of Paris in the late 19th century.
In “Combing,” we observe a figure engaged in the act of grooming, the central character dominates the canvas, adding a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The subject is depicted with her back towards the viewer, her arms lifted to style her hair which is not visible to us, thereby adding a touch of mystery and informality to the scene. The use of color is both muted and harmonious, creating a soft interplay of light and shadow that enhances the texture of the garments and background. Her attire, a loose-fitting, sheer dress, suggests a private, informal setting. The brushwork is loose and expressive, indicative of the Post-Impressionistic approach to form and structure. In the background, diffuse patterns and light brushstrokes evoke a sense of place without offering concrete details, allowing the viewer’s focus to remain on the subject’s action and state of concentration.
