Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec was a French painter, printmaker, draughtsman, and illustrator born on November 24, 1864, in Albi, France. His full name was Henri Marie Raymond de Toulouse-Lautrec-Monfa. He was part of an aristocratic family with a long lineage, but his life was significantly altered by physical ailments that shaped his career and personal life.
Toulouse-Lautrec was born to Albi nobility, with his father being Count Alphonse Charles de Toulouse-Lautrec-Monfa and his mother, Adèle Zoë Tapié de Celeyran. His parents were first cousins, which might have contributed to his genetic disorders. At the age of 13, he broke his left femur, and at 14, he fractured his right femur. These injuries did not heal properly due to a rare bone disorder, possibly Pycnodysostosis, which prevented the bones from healing correctly, leading to his stunted growth; he grew to a height of only 4 ft 8 in (1.42 m).
Due to his health issues, Henri moved to Paris with his mother in 1882, where he began studying art. He studied under Léon Bonnat and later at the École des Beaux-Arts. His art was influenced by the impressionists, but he developed his unique style characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and a focus on capturing the essence of Parisian nightlife.
Toulouse-Lautrec's work often depicted scenes from the Moulin Rouge, cafés-concerts, brothels, and circuses, capturing the bohemian lifestyle of Montmartre. His art is noted for its empathetic portrayal of the marginalized and the unconventional beauty he found in the everyday life of Paris.
His work was characterized by the use of lithography, which allowed for mass production of his posters and prints, thus spreading his art to a broader audience. Toulouse-Lautrec was also influenced by Japanese art, particularly Ukiyo-e prints, which can be seen in his use of flat color areas and strong lines.
Despite his physical limitations, Toulouse-Lautrec was known for his wit and his ability to engage with the vibrant social scene of Paris. His lifestyle, however, contributed to his health decline. He was an alcoholic, which led to further health complications. He suffered a stroke in 1899, which left him partially paralyzed, and he died at the age of 36 on September 9, 1901, in Château de Malromé, following a second stroke.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec's legacy lies in his contribution to Post-Impressionism and his unique portrayal of Parisian life at the turn of the 20th century. His work is held in high esteem for its artistic innovation, capturing the spirit of an era with unmatched vibrancy and empathy.