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"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.
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