Artwork

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot)

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot), by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896
Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot), by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, ink, 1896

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot) 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

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec produced the lithograph Ribot Deposition in 1896. Executed as a single‑plane print, the work captures a bustling interior where a group of figures surrounds a prone central figure. The composition is rendered with swift, gestural lines that convey motion rather than precise detail, giving the scene an immediacy akin to a candid observation.

Subject & Meaning

The image portrays a densely populated room, likely a theatrical or social setting, in which onlookers gather around a fallen individual. Attire such as hats and coats suggests a public venue, while the blurred faces and outstretched hands emphasize collective reaction over personal identity, reflecting Lautrec’s interest in the dynamics of crowd behavior and urban life.

Technique & Style

Created through lithography, the print relies on the artist’s direct drawing on a stone or metal plate, allowing the rapid, sketch‑like strokes that dominate the composition. The loose line work, with its fluid contours and minimal shading, highlights Lautrec’s preference for capturing the kinetic energy of a moment rather than rendering fine anatomical or textural detail.

History & Provenance

Ribot Deposition emerged during a prolific period when Lautrec was establishing himself as a leading printmaker in Paris. Though specific ownership records are limited, the lithograph forms part of the artist’s broader output that documented the nightlife and theatrical world of late‑19th‑century France, and it continues to appear in exhibitions of his print work.

Soudais Deposition (Déposition Soudais)
Soudais Deposition (Déposition Soudais), 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 Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot)?

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot) was painted by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in 1896.

Where can I see Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot)?

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot)?

Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot) is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot)?

Museum-quality prints of Ribot Deposition (Déposition Ribot) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.