See the Real Moulin Rouge in London

"At the Moulin Rouge" by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Courtesy Anne Petersen.

While the modern world celebrates late 19th-century Montmartre with touristic nostalgia, the reality of this period in Paris bohemian hilltop village was darker and more dangerous than some may imagine. One has only to study Henri Toulouse-Lautrecs Moulin Rouge to get an authentic glimpse into this world pitched between the brothel and the hospital as only Lautrec could depict.Visitors in London this summer have a rare chance to do just that. On now through September 18, 2011 at the Courtauld Gallery is a true study of 1890s Montmartre Beyond the Moulin Rouge as experienced and captured by Lautrec in partnership with model and Moulin Rouge dancer, Jane Avril. In this special show, the curtain is pulled back and the viewer is invited to examine both public and private images of Avril, one of Lautrecs favorite subjects, a close friend, and the daughter of a courtesan.Find great luxury hotels in London on Perfect Escapes.


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