Artwork

Anna Held

Anna Held, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896
Anna Held, by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896

Anna Held is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Anna Held is a 1896 lithograph by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, created on cream-colored velin paper in black ink. It is a print featuring a sketch-like portrait.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a woman, likely a performer or figure from Parisian society, with her hair pulled back and wearing a simple collar. The subject is set against a sparse background with faint suggestions of surrounding elements.

Technique & Style

Toulouse-Lautrec employed a loose, sketchy style in Anna Held, characteristic of lithography. The scratchy lines and quick execution evoke the immediacy of a drawing, rather than a formal portrait.

Context

Toulouse-Lautrec was known for capturing the essence of Parisian nightlife and culture in his work, often focusing on performers and social figures. Anna Held reflects his immersion in the vibrant culture of late 19th-century Paris.

Anna Held
Anna Held, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Artist

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Comte Henri Marie Raymond de Toulouse-Lautrec-Montfa (24 November 1864 – 9 September 1901), known as Toulouse-Lautrec (French: ), was a French painter, printmaker, draughtsman, caricaturist, and illustrator.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Anna Held?

Anna Held was painted by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1896.

Where can I see Anna Held?

Anna Held is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Anna Held?

Anna Held is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Anna Held?

Museum-quality prints of Anna Held are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.