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Hussars by Toulouse-Lautrec, Henri de

Toulouse-Lautrec, Henri de · 1878

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec painted *Hussars* in 1878, when he was just 14 years old. This oil-on-canvas work, housed in a private collection, offers a fascinating glimpse into the artist's early career, long before he became renowned for his vibrant depictions of Parisian nightlife.

In this piece, Toulouse-Lautrec presents a hussar, a cavalry soldier, not as a heroic figure in battle, but in a more intimate, almost reflective moment. Observe the subtle details: the rich blue of his uniform, the distinctive hat, and the quiet dignity in his profile. The painting eschews grand narratives for a focus on individual character.

This work predates Toulouse-Lautrec's later association with the Post-Impressionist movement and his iconic posters for the Moulin Rouge. It reveals an early inclination towards capturing the human condition, a theme that would mature and define his later, more famous works. It's a foundational step in his artistic journey, showing a budding talent for observation and a sensitivity to his subjects.

What do you notice about the soldier's expression in this early portrait?

Details

It’s a portrait of a hussar, a cavalry soldier.
It’s a portrait of a hussar, a cavalry soldier.
The painter was only 14 when he made this.
The painter was only 14 when he made this.
The texture and color of the mane suggest movement and the horse's vitality.
The texture and color of the mane suggest movement and the horse's vitality.
Transcript

This isn't a hero on a battlefield. It’s a portrait of a hussar, a cavalry soldier. The painter was only 14 when he made this. His name was Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. He captures a quiet, almost weary moment. This was years before his famous Paris nightlife scenes.