Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901), the Post-Impressionist master of Montmartre whose posters and paintings of cabaret life rank among the most electrifying images of the Belle Epoque, is represented here by his engraved personal calling card bearing handwritten annotations in his own hand. The card is printed in elegant capitals: "HENRI DE TOULOUSE LAUTREC." Above the engraved name, Lautrec has written: "Loujil Gallery 5 / Regent Street"; below, in a casual hand: "Monday? / a drink time."
The annotations place Lautrec at a London gallery on Regent Street, issuing an informal invitation for drinks — a characteristically convivial gesture from an artist whose social life was as legendary as his art. Lautrec visited London on several occasions during the 1890s, where his work was exhibited and admired. Calling cards with annotations in his hand are among the rarest and most intimate Lautrec documents available to collectors.
Engraved calling card with handwritten annotations, pencil, approximately 3.5 x 2.25 inches, undated (IMG_223.jpg). Light soiling and handling wear consistent with use; card sound; overall good to very good condition. Estimate: $3,000-$5,000.
This item will be accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from One of a Kind Collectibles.