The artwork entitled “Portrait of Berthe Bady” is a captivating piece by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created in 1897. This portrait is executed on cardboard and exemplifies the Post-Impressionist movement, which is known for its vivid colors, emotive subjectivity, and rejection of the naturalistic depictions of Impressionism. The dimensions of the artwork measure approximately 69 by 58 centimeters. Characterized as a portrait genre, the artwork finds its home at the Musee Toulouse-Lautrec in Albi, France, allowing viewers to appreciate its historical and artistic value.
The artwork depicts Berthe Bady, who was an actress and frequent subject for Toulouse-Lautrec. She is portrayed in a relaxed, seated pose, her body angled towards the left side of the canvas but with her face turned to engage directly with the viewer. Her expression is thoughtful and introspective, with a hand gently resting under her chin, emphasizing a moment of contemplation. The dress she wears is richly colored in shades of blue and adorned with lace, suggesting an air of sophistication and elegance. The straightforward composition focuses on the figure and facial expression, while the background wash of bold, swirling strokes suggests an atmosphere that is almost dreamlike. This choice of style and color use reflects the artist’s characteristic flair for capturing the essence of his subjects with emotional depth and immediacy.
