Louise Blouet "Le Margoin" 1900

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec made "Louise Blouet 'Le Margoin'" with crayon and brush. This work offers a glimpse into the complex social and gender dynamics of 19th-century Montmartre. Louise Blouet, or "Le Margoin," was a well-known figure in the Parisian nightlife. Lautrec, with his roots in the aristocracy, was drawn to the margins of society, and often portrayed the lives of performers, prostitutes, and other members of the demimonde. In this sketch, the artist captures a private moment of a woman who publicly displays herself. Her downcast eyes and subtle smile hint at a complexity beneath the surface. This piece also reflects the societal gaze that these women were subjected to, and invites us to consider their experiences beyond the stage. Toulouse-Lautrec avoids idealizing his sitter, instead rendering her with a directness that acknowledges her humanity. Ultimately, "Louise Blouet 'Le Margoin'" provides a tender, and insightful look at the life of a woman navigating the constraints and possibilities of her time.