Femme assise, bras croisés

A master of line and form, Femme assise, bras croisés, exudes Henri Matisse’s unrivalled ability as a draughtsman. Reducing his palette to just two materials, pen and India ink, the artist was able to mine the full potential of each medium; thus, in the present lot, every subtle variation – from the gentle increase in pressure which produced the sculptural contour of the shoulder, to the quick, gestural strokes used to suggest the soft draping of fabric – combine to create a work that is arresting in its simplicity.

Exuding the easy, sensual glamour for which he was so universally celebrated, in the present lot Matisse captures his model, identified as Nenette, in three-quarter length, her face turned sideways in a wistful, dream-like gaze. Softened by gentle contrapposto, her frontal pose showcases her glamorous, jewel-accented gown, while her sensuously crossed arms emphasise the sumptuousness of her curves.

As the artist explained to Pierre Courthion, ‘When I have a model, I first make a literal, almost photographic portrait; I soak in the character of the model... Then, when I feel the contact is made, I let my hand go to work’ (H. Matisse quoted in H. Matisse & P. Courthion, Chatting with Henri Matisse: The Lost 1941 Interview, Los Angeles, 2013, p. 146). Parading his skill in creating a portrait that not only captures the likeness of his sitter, but her alluring personality as well, Femme assise, bras croisés is a testament to the artist’s prowess, and relentless pursuit of the expressive power of the line.