"Paris - Moulin Rouge" by Paul McGehee. An early evening view of the legendary Moulin Rouge at the turn of the century. The famed Parisian cabaret first opened its doors in 1889, the same year that the Eiffel Tower was constructed. Located in the Jardin de Paris at the foot of the Montmarte hill, the Moulin Rouge (Red Mill) was created to be a meeting place for all...from wealthy businessmen to elegant ladies to the more bohemian members of the local art scene. The fashionable night club became known as "The First Palace of Women" as it showcased France's most beautiful female dancers and other specialty acts inspired by the circus to entertain its patrons. The dance that was to become known as the "can-can" originated at the Moulin Rouge and became famous worldwide, in part due to the beautiful paintings of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. He was a 25 year old artist who graphically documented the cabaret and its dancers in a series of drawings, paintings and poster art which were commissioned by the Moulin Rouge at their opening. Toulouse-Lautrec took up residency at a friend's nearby studio while undertaking the series of works...during that time period, he had a permanent reserved seat at Moulin Rouge and became a fixture of the club, which also exhibited his works to its wealthy clientele. In more recent years, the Parisian cabaret has featured many talented performers including singers such as Josephine Baker, Charles Trenet, Mistinguett, Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Yves Montand, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and Liza Minnelli. The original building of the Moulin Rouge was destroyed by fire in 1915, however it was rebuilt and reopened in 1921. Moulin Rouge is still open today, featuring the same opulent musical revues it has been famous for since 1889. The Parisian cabaret recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, and is a must-see for all who visit the City of Light. "Paris - Moulin Rouge" is faithfully reproduced from Paul's original color pencil drawing as an archival quality print issued in a strictly limited edition of only 2,000 pieces each hand-signed by the artist.