Plate: TL. 26

"Several examples are known where Lautrec drew on work by other artists whom he admired. In this poster there are clear references to Adolphe Willette's humorous themes and rococo style of illustration style of illustration. Willette was the founder and illustrator of the short-lived monthly 'La Vache Enragee' (the angry cow) edited by the cartoonist Adolphe Roedel. This coloured poster of the same title was commissioned for the appearance of the magazine March 1896. As a reference to the wretched financial state of most artists, the term 'manger de la vache enragee' (meaning roughly, 'meaning not having enough to eat') was adopted as the motto for the 'Vachalcade' which was held on Montmarte annually from 1896. This was an artists' procession, with fanfares and allegories on fame and the muses; it also included a furious cow and a troupe of pretty girls as a satire on Europa with the bull. The event was organized by Roedel" (Adriani p.217)

During the 1960s the renowned French printer, Mourlot Freres, printed this superb series "Les Affiches de Toulouse-Lautrec" for collectors. They are reduced lithographic versions of Lautrec's most famous works. They are truly the most beautiful printing we have been able to find in this size format.

As vintage printings of Lautrec's work, in all formats, reach high prices, this mid-century printing offers a superb alternative at a reasonable price that will only appreciate in value.