“The Last Drop” is a notable artwork by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, crafted in pencil in 1887. This piece is a representative example of the Art Nouveau movement of the time and epitomizes the genre painting category. The artwork, with dimensions of 58.5 by 45 cm, currently resides in a private collection, which underscores its exclusivity and the esteem in which it is held by art collectors.
The artwork depicts a captivating scene, likely set in a bar or similar establishment, which is a common subject in Toulouse-Lautrec’s oeuvre, given his interest in the Parisian nightlife. A central figure is portrayed at close range, facing away from the viewer, with a coffee cup in one hand and the other hand interacting with what appears to be a stand or counter, upon which another cup rests. The most striking element is a painting or representation of a skull and crossbones, a motif associated with danger or poison, on the surface in front of the figure, which adds a macabre and possibly symbolic touch to the piece.
In the background, another character wearing a top hat is shown partially obscured and in profile, contributing to the narrative quality of the scene. The use of line is expressive, and the relatively sparse application suggests a candid, almost sketch-like quality to the work. The limited palette reflects the medium’s characteristic, concentrating the viewer’s attention on the composition and subject matter.
Overall, “The Last Drop” embodies Toulouse-Lautrec’s skill in capturing the atmosphere of the everyday social milieu of his time, as well as his ability to convey a deeper narrative through seemingly mundane scenes.
