Img307 Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901)

The composition presents a scene dominated by two figures engaged in what appears to be a clandestine encounter. A woman, sharply dressed in a dark coat and wide-brimmed hat, occupies the central position. Her posture is angled away from the viewer, suggesting a deliberate attempt at concealment or privacy. She holds a small, circular object – possibly a fan or a plate – in her hand, its surface reflecting light and drawing attention to this gesture.
To her right stands a man in formal attire: a top hat and a tailored suit. His face is rendered with exaggerated features, particularly the prominent nose and pointed beard, contributing to an air of caricature. He leans towards the woman, his expression difficult to decipher but hinting at either intrigue or perhaps a degree of awkwardness.
The background is treated as a textured plane, devoid of specific detail, which serves to isolate the figures and intensify their interaction. A shadowy form resembling a feline creature lurks in the upper left corner, adding an element of mystery and potential symbolism – perhaps representing stealth or hidden desires.
Text appears at the top and bottom of the image. The inscription Divan Japonais suggests a location or establishment with a Japanese-inspired theme. Below the figures, the name “Ed Fournier” is displayed alongside the title “directeur,” indicating his role in the depicted setting. The address 75 rue des Martyrs provides further contextual information about the place represented.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing shades of green, yellow, and black. This limited range contributes to a sense of moodiness and sophistication. The use of flat planes and simplified forms suggests an influence from Japanese woodblock prints, which were popular in Europe during this period.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of social interaction, secrecy, and perhaps even transgression within a specific cultural context. The exaggerated features and stylized rendering suggest a satirical or critical commentary on societal norms and expectations surrounding courtship and public behavior. The overall effect is one of enigmatic allure, inviting speculation about the relationship between the figures and the nature of their encounter.