Louis Pascal Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901)

The composition presents a gentleman in formal attire, positioned near a door. He is depicted in profile, facing towards the right of the frame, with his body angled slightly away from the viewer. The man wears a tall black top hat and a dark suit, complemented by a waistcoat and tie. A lit cigar is held between his fingers, adding an element of relaxed sophistication to his demeanor. He leans on a walking stick, which diagonally crosses the foreground, contributing to the dynamic feel of the scene.
The background consists primarily of a paneled door, rendered in muted tones that contrast with the darker hues of the man’s clothing. The simplicity of the backdrop directs attention squarely onto the figure and his posture. A glimpse of what appears to be an outdoor space is visible through the doorway, suggesting a transition between interior and exterior environments.
The artist employs a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout the painting. Colors are applied in broad strokes, creating a sense of immediacy and movement. The use of warm yellows and browns in the background contrasts with the cooler tones of the man’s suit, enhancing his presence within the composition.
Subtleties in the figures expression suggest an air of contemplation or perhaps mild amusement. His gaze is directed off-frame, implying a narrative beyond what is immediately visible. The leaning posture and the cigar contribute to an impression of leisure and self-assuredness. The placement near the door might symbolize a moment of transition, a pause before entering or leaving a space, hinting at a life lived between public and private spheres. Overall, the work conveys a sense of quiet elegance and understated character study.