Henri Matisse’s “Figure in Scutari Carpet” is a remarkably expressive work of art from 1922. Executed in charcoal on paper, it falls within the realm of Expressionism and represents the artist’s unique approach to portraiture. The artwork spans 129.5 cm in height and 101.6 cm in width, conveying an intimate scale. It currently resides within a private collection, reinforcing its exclusivity and the personal nature of the piece.
The artwork portrays a seated figure, resting her head on one hand in a thoughtful or perhaps melancholic pose, her gaze directed away from the viewer, lost in contemplation. This pensive subject is set against a largely unadorned background, with the faint suggestion of windows behind her, adding a sense of depth and environment. The figure is dressed in a patterned garment, and around her neck hangs a string of beads, which, along with the texture of her clothing, are rendered with care to indicate their material qualities. Below her, the eponymous Scutari carpet is presented with detailed patterning that reflects Matisse’s interest in textiles and decorative elements, a recurring theme in his oeuvre. The artwork communicates a deep emotional resonance, wherein the subject’s internal state becomes palpable through Matisse’s skilled charcoal handling and the economy of his line.
