In Young woman at a table, ‘Poudre de riz’, we see a young woman seated at a table, focused on applying rice powder to her face. The colors are soft and warm, with a palette dominated by browns, creams, and subtle pinks. Her expression is serene, and the light falls gently on her features, creating a sense of intimacy.

The background is simple, allowing the viewer to concentrate on the figure and her delicate task. This painting is characterized by Toulouse-Lautrec's loose brushwork and vibrant color application. The texture of the rice powder is suggested through the artist's careful detailing, while the woman's clothing features intricate patterns. The composition is balanced, with the table acting as a grounding element in the scene.

The dimensions are approximately 50 x 65 cm, typical of Toulouse-Lautrec's portrait work. Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec was known for his depictions of Parisian nightlife and the bohemian lifestyle. This work, painted in the 1890s, reflects his interest in the lives of women in the entertainment industry. An interesting fact about this painting is that rice powder was commonly used by women of the time to achieve a pale complexion, highlighting societal beauty standards.

The work is currently housed in the Musée d'Orsay, a fitting location given its focus on 19th-century art.