Description:Created in 1932, this work was published by the Cleveland Print Club Publication in 1934 with their collection ink stamp on the verso and printed on vélin d’Arches paper. Hand signed by Henri Matisse (1869 – 1954) in pencil in the lower right margin and numbered 125/250 in pencil to the right of the signature (out of the total signed and numbered edition of 250 aside from 6 trail proofs and 10 artist’s proofs).
This beautiful and elegant figural study of the woman’s form is perhaps one of Matisse’s quintessential, iconic subjects. Using very minimal lines and smooth strokes, Matisse has been able to portray a nude figure whose contrapposto form is translated into a seated position. The angle of her hips are in opposition to the angle of her shoulders, allowing her torso to be curved and shaped ever so slightly. Furthermore, the elongated upper body is continued beyond her shoulders with her elbows outstretched, her hands hanging down her neck. She is set in a lush scene with billowing pillows and a thick cover which envelops her lower body.
PROVENANCE:
~ Thymel Cab. Jan 1970
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work):
1. Duthuit-Matisse, M. & Duthuit, C. (1983). Henri Matisse, Catalogue raisonné de l’œuvre grave établi avec la collaboration de Françoise Garnaud. Claude Duthuit: Paris. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 233 on pgs. 180-1.
About the Framing:
Conservation framed with museum quality archival materials, this work is set in a robust, Art Deco-inspired moulding with scalloped geometrical elements. The contrasting tones of the framing accentuate the bold colors of this work while the subtle sculptural details enhance the depth and form in this piece. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching gold inner fillet, this work is set behind an archival Plexiglas® cover.
