theophile-alexandre
steinlen
1859 – 1923
“Steinlen's work is big—big for its humanity and big for its art; big by reason of its realism and by reason of its idealism; big in extent, intent, and content....Steinlen must surely be ranked as one of the few greatest artists of his time.”
–Alvan F. Sanborn, excerpt from Paris and the Social Revolution, 1905
Bio
Born in Lausanne, Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen began as a printed fabric designer before moving to Paris in 1881, where he joined the Montmartre cabaret scene at Le Chat Noir. He became a leading illustrator for numerous publications, notably Gil Blas, producing over 400 drawings that highlighted Parisian life, especially the working class. Known for his skill in various media, Steinlen had a lifelong affection for cats, which appeared frequently in his work and even in his home, famously a gathering spot for neighborhood cats. He exhibited widely and was honored with a dedicated room at the 1909 Salon d’Automne.
Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen
Compagnie Francaise Des Chocolats Et Des Thes
12.5" x 10"
Original Lithograph printed in colors on wove paper
Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen Helle
5.6” x 11.4"
Original Lithograph