This lithograph poster, “Divan Japonais”, was created by Lautrec to promote a cabaret in Paris's Montmartre district. Opened in 1893, the cabaret featured Japanese-inspired decor, reflecting the influence of Japonisme—the fascination with Japanese art and culture that swept through Europe in the late 19th century. As a devoted admirer of Japanese culture and ukiyo-e art, Lautrec infused this poster with numerous ukiyo-e-inspired elements. Rejecting traditional Western perspective, he placed the viewer within a flat, immersive composition. With bold color blocks in black, yellow, and gray, Lautrec created a distinctly oriental ambiance. The refined expression of the male figure and the elegant posture of the female figure convey a sense of focus and vibrancy, as though both are completely absorbed in the performance. Notably, the individuals prominently featured in the image are not the primary subjects being advertised.
The poster showcases three main figures: a singer, a dancer, and a patron. The two recognizable faces belong to Lautrec’s close friends: Édouard Dujardin, an art critic and founder of the literary magazine Revue wagnérienne, and Jane Avril, a celebrated second-generation star dancer of the Moulin Rouge. Both are portrayed enjoying the performance, their presence subtly suggesting that this is a venue worth visiting, underscoring the cabaret's sophistication and allure. At the top of the composition, the stage features the third main character: the singer Yvette Guilbert. Interestingly, although she is one of the central figures being promoted, Lautrec did not depict her full figure, especially her face, which would typically be a focal point. Instead, he portrayed only her signature black gloves as she performed on stage. This choice was both inventive and daring, as Lautrec knew that the black gloves alone were enough for everyone to immediately recognize Guilbert, a hallmark of her iconic performance style. This clever promotional tactic not only affirmed the performer’s fame but also reinforced the public’s association with her distinctive attire, leaving a lasting impression.
The patrons of cabarets and nightclubs, along with the star performers who graced their stages, stood out for their unique characteristics and magnetic appeal. Unlike ordinary passersby, these individuals possessed distinct personalities and memorable traits. Lautrec masterfully captured this individuality, blending artistic ingenuity with sharp commercial insight. This seamless fusion of art and promotion perfectly showcased Lautrec’s status as the “Father of Poster Design”, a title he exemplified through his groundbreaking work.
