The photographer sescau Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901)

Here we observe a lithograph characterized by bold color blocking and stylized figures, indicative of late nineteenth-century graphic design. The composition is divided into distinct zones, with a vibrant red figure dominating the left side and a yellow background providing stark contrast. Text elements are integrated directly into the visual field, contributing to the overall aesthetic.
The woman on the left is rendered in an exaggerated fashion; her hair cascades down in voluminous curls, and she wears a flowing crimson dress that seems to billow around her. Her pose suggests movement, perhaps a turn or a flourish, while her expression remains ambiguous – a hint of theatricality rather than genuine emotion. The artist has employed a limited palette for this figure, relying on shades of red and touches of black to define form and create depth.
To the right, a male figure is depicted in a more linear style. He appears to be holding a camera or photographic equipment, his posture suggesting an active engagement with the scene. His striped trousers and somewhat awkward stance contribute to a sense of informality and perhaps even a touch of caricature. A smaller, distant figure can be seen further right, seemingly observing the interaction between the woman and the man.
The text 9. Place Pigalle is prominently displayed at the top, establishing a specific location as central to the works narrative. Below this, “P. Sescau Photographe” identifies the creator and his profession. The inclusion of the photographer’s name suggests that this piece may be an advertisement or promotional material for his studio.
The subtexts within this lithograph are layered. The juxtaposition of the flamboyant woman and the more grounded male figure hints at a dynamic between performance and observation, perhaps reflecting the burgeoning world of photography and its impact on representations of identity and social roles. The reference to Place Pigalle, known as a lively entertainment district in Paris, further reinforces themes of spectacle and public life. The overall effect is one of stylized modernity, capturing a moment of transition within urban culture.