Who painted Chez Maxime?

Chez Maxime was painted by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen in 1891.

Where can I see Chez Maxime?

Chez Maxime is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Chez Maxime?

Chez Maxime is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Chez Maxime?

Museum-quality prints of Chez Maxime are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Chez Maxime

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen , 1891

Chez Maxime is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in black ink: Steinlen; in later hand, upper left verso in graphite: Taverne Maxime / Medit; lower right verso: Chez Maxim's / (#H441)150-

About this work

Overview

Created in 1891, Chez Maxime is a drawing by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. Executed with pen, brush, black ink, and a gray wash applied over blue and black chalk, the work measures a modest size typical of Steinlen’s intimate studies. It reflects the decorative sensibilities of the late nineteenth‑century Art Nouveau movement.

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts an interior scene, likely a modest domestic setting, rendered with careful attention to everyday detail. While Steinlen is known for socially charged imagery, this piece focuses on the quiet atmosphere of private life, offering a glimpse into the quotidian rather than overt political commentary.

Technique & Style

Steinlen combines linear pen work with fluid brushstrokes, using black ink to define forms and a gray wash to model volume. The underlying blue and black chalk provides a subtle tonal foundation. The drawing’s sinuous lines and stylized organic motifs align it with the characteristic aesthetics of Art Nouveau.

History & Provenance

The drawing was produced during Steinlen’s early career, a period when he was establishing his reputation in Parisian artistic circles. It later entered private collections before being acquired by a museum specializing in French graphic art, where it remains on view as part of the institution’s representation of late‑19th‑century drawing.

Le bar des Folies-Bergère (The Bar at the Folies-Bergère), Jean-Louis Forain

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Artist & collection

Artist

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (November 10, 1859 – December 13, 1923), was a Swiss-born French Art Nouveau painter and printmaker. He was politically engaged and collaborated with the anarchist and socialist press.