Polaire

"Polaire", an 1897 print by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, draws us into the captivating world of the Parisian stage. This piece, part of the National Gallery of Art's collection, introduces us to the enigmatic Polaire, a celebrated actress and singer of the era. nn Created with black chalk on beige paper, the portrait captures Polaire's allure with a striking economy of means. Notice how Toulouse-Lautrec emphasizes her expressive features – the heavily-lidded eyes, the subtly parted lips – hinting at a woman both confident and alluring. Her gaze, directed slightly away, adds an air of mystery, inviting us to wonder about her thoughts. nn The large, feathered hat, a hallmark of Polaire's style, adds a touch of flamboyance and further frames her captivating face. Toulouse-Lautrec's masterful use of line – bold yet delicate – creates a sense of movement and depth, as if capturing a fleeting moment in the spotlight.