The artwork titled “Miss May Belfort” was crafted by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in the year 1895. This portrait aligns with the Art Nouveau movement, contributing a modern edge to the era’s aesthetic. The current whereabouts of the artwork place it within a private collection.
In the artwork, May Belfort, a singer who captivated the Parisian nightlife, is depicted. Toulouse-Lautrec portrays her with a characteristically expressive style, encapsulating her theatrical and beguiling presence. Her attire is vibrant, predominantly in shades of red, and accented with hints of black and white that complement her striking appearance. Notably, she is holding a small black cat, which adds a personal touch and possibly references a specific aspect of her act or persona. The background remains loosely indicative, with sketch lines suggesting an undefined setting. The artist’s use of swift, confident strokes and the sparing use of color imbue the portrait with a sense of immediacy and intimacy, capturing the essence of Belfort’s character rather than delivering a detailed, realistic likeness. The name “MANBI” is inscribed at the bottom, potentially a playful modification of the subject’s name, which exemplifies Toulouse-Lautrec’s familiarity with the subject and his penchant for injecting humor and affection into his representations of the performers he admired.
