The artwork entitled “White Horse ‘Gazelle'” is an oil on canvas painting by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec created in 1881. Measuring 61 cm by 49.5 cm, the painting encapsulates the Impressionism movement, specifically categorized as an animal painting. Toulouse-Lautrec’s work here is an exemplar of his ability to convey the grace and presence of the animal subject.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with a portrayal of a white horse, presumably named Gazelle, as suggested by the title. The horse’s head is the central focus, rendered with swift, gestural brushstrokes that create a sense of movement and vitality. The background is deeply contrasted, with darker tones that accentuate the luminosity and gentle contours of the horse’s features. The animal appears to be leaning over a wooden barrier, which is detailed with great attention, showcasing the texture of the wood and the metal elements affixed to it.
The brushwork and the composition itself exhibit characteristics of the Impressionist style, where the interplay of light and color is used to create an image that captures a moment in time with vibrancy and immediacy. Such a representation allows the viewer to sense the temperament and the physicality of the horse, conveying a certain introspection or quietness in the subject. Toulouse-Lautrec’s delicate handling of the white tones on the horse’s coat, contrasted with the bolder, darker strokes of the background, effectively bring forth the serene and noble character of the animal.
