Friday, August 5, 2011

Henri Marie Raymond du Toulouse-Lautrec-Monfa (1864-1901) – Post-Impressionist Master

Art to Adorn the Moulin Rouge! Decor Muse

Because of their close association, any discussion of a Moulin Rouge! Muse would be incomplete without Toulouse-Lautrec. He was such a great character in the movie. Since his art would be so perfect for the home décor muse we are spinning this week, I thought we should share some of his work.

Born in France to an aristocratic family, Toulouse showed an early gift for painting and drawing, a gift that was encouraged by informal lessons by a family friend. Due to inbreeding (his parents were cousins), Toulouse suffered from a number of maladies which contributed to the fracturing of both of his thigh bones at 13 and 14 years of age, causing his legs to cease to grow. He also suffered rickets and later died at 36 from various ailments including alcoholism.

He was drawn to Montmartre for its bohemian lifestyle and because it attracted artists, philosophers and writers. For 20 years he created art, and was incredibly prolific. He made a living from his family and by doing mainly poster art, but other artists of the day apparently looked down on him (sorry) and his work. Today he is recognized as one of the greatest painters of his day. For more, see Wikapedia.

A small sample of his work follows.

Enjoy! Braxton














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