Bidspirit auction | ”LA CHAINE SIMPSON,” PRINT AFTER

”LA CHAINE SIMPSON,” PRINT AFTER HENRI DE TOULOUSE - Framed color print after Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (French, 1864-1901), depicting his celebrated 1896 cycling advertisement “La Chaine Simpson.” The composition features cyclists on a racing track beneath the prominent red title “La Chaine Simpson, ” with advertising text reading “L.B. Spoke, Directeur pour la France, 25 Boulevard Haussmann.”Printed inscriptions along the lower left include Imprimerie Chaix, 20 Rue Bergere, Paris” and additional printer/publisher markings. Bearing Toulouse-Lautrec's distinctive monogram and “96” date within the image at lower right. An additional circular stamp is visible in the lower portion of the sheet. Presented under glass in a gilt molded frame with beaded inner border.This example has not been removed from the frame for examination. Due to the dimensions and without further authentication of the paper, printing method and concealed margins, the work is conservatively cataloged as a later print after Toulouse-Lautrec rather than as an original 1896 lithographic poster. MEASURES: 38.5 X 27.5 inches FRAME DIMENSIONS: 43 X 33 X 1.5 inches Condition: Overall in fair to good vintage condition. The sheet exhibits age-related toning and scattered discoloration, spotting and surface marks. Some creasing, rippling and handling-related irregularities appear to be present, with additional minor imperfections visible throughout. Printed colors remain generally strong and legible. The gilt frame exhibits scattered scratches, scuffs, abrasions, finish loss and general wear consistent with age and display. The reverse is covered with aged brown paper backing showing substantial wrinkling, staining, discoloration, small tears, punctures and losses, particularly around the edges and corners. Hanging wire is present. The work has not been examined outside of the frame, and the full sheet, margins, verso and areas concealed beneath the frame have not been inspected. No statement regarding originality of the 1896 printing or authenticity as a lifetime Toulouse-Lautrec impression is made.