Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864–1901)
1895
Oil paint on canvas
75 x 55 cm
Acquired by Oskar Reinhart in 1922
Cha-U-Kao, a clown who performed at the famous Moulin Rouge dancehall, is one of the most mysterious figures portrayed by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Her real name and life dates are still unknown.
Arm-in-arm with her partner, Gabrielle, Cha-U-Kao is shown wearing her trademark costume of black knickerbockers, yellow ruff and tall white wig. Her flamboyant clothing and confident pose ensure that she stands out amidst the crowd of performers and patrons. Among them is the dancer Jane Avril, seated at left and easily identifiable by her red hair. Toulouse-Lautrec portrayed her frequently, including in a painting on display as part of The Courtauld’s collection.