The artwork titled “La Macarona in Riding Habit” was created by the renowned artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in the year 1893. Rendered in oil on board, it measures 52.71 by 40.01 centimeters and is categorized as a sketch and study. It was painted during the Post-Impressionism movement and currently resides in a private collection.
This artwork depicts a figure clad in riding attire, offering the viewer a vibrant and dynamic study of form and character. The central figure is shown sitting, perhaps on a fence or a similar structure, with legs crossed and body tilted forward in an animated pose. The clothing is distinguished by the stark contrast between the bold red of the riding jacket and the muted tones of the white breeches and shirt. A red cap with a white band completes the ensemble, emphasizing the athletic nature of the depicted individual.
The artist’s brushwork is expressive, with swift and visible strokes that lend the work a sense of immediacy and movement. Toulouse-Lautrec’s use of color is strategic; the bright reds draw the eye, while subtler shadings and highlights imply the volume and form of the figure’s body. The background is minimal, a plain board that allows the viewer to focus entirely on the subject.
As typical of a study, the artwork may not appear fully finished but rather serves as an exploration of form, color, and composition. Toulouse-Lautrec’s portrayal communicates a spirited moment, capturing the essence of the rider’s character, and further demonstrates his skill in rendering the human figure with great economy of detail yet with a penetrating insight.
