La Chapiteau – Acrobats After Toulouse-Lautrec - Vintage Circus Lithograph

Step inside the world of 19th-century circus spectacle with “La Chapiteau – Toulouse sous le Trapèze,” a rare vintage lithograph inspired by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s 1899 pastel “Les Acrobates.” This expressive work captures a dramatic moment as acrobats rehearse under the soft light of the circus tent, balancing poise and precision in a human pyramid formation.

The hand-colored lithograph is printed on deckle-edged paper and features a handwritten pencil inscription and signature, adding a personal and poetic touch. The composition beautifully channels Lautrec’s fascination with performance and movement, making this a striking addition to any collection or interior space.

Subject:

Acrobats in a human pyramid formation, rehearsing inside a circus ring under the trapeze.

Movement Associated With This Picture

Post-Impressionism / Belle Époque / Mid-20th-Century Lithographic Revival
Reflecting Lautrec’s original Post-Impressionist vision, this lithograph revives the elegance, spontaneity, and physical energy of circus life.

What Does the Signature Say

• Lower right: "le Goutteur Courtier" – Likely the name of the printer, lithographer, or atelier.
• Lower left: "La Chapiteau – Toulouse sous le Trapèze" – Translates to "The Big Top – Toulouse under the trapeze", a poetic reference tying the artwork to both the circus setting and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec himself.

Artist Details

• Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864–1901) was a master of capturing life on the fringes of society—cabarets, dancers, and circus performers.
• This lithograph was likely created in the mid-20th century as a tribute or reproduction after Lautrec’s pastel, possibly by a French printing house or artist’s studio operating under the name le Goutteur Courtier (no biographical records found under this name).

Frame Condition:

The artwork is elegantly presented in a dark wood frame with a slim gold inner edge and a soft green matting. Frame and glass are in very good condition, with only minor signs of age-related wear that complement the vintage aesthetic. The paper retains its deckled edges and is beautifully displayed.