Laurette with a White Blouse (1917) by Henri Matisse

Laurette with a White Blouse - Henri Matisse - 1917

Artwork Information

TitleLaurette with a White Blouse
ArtistHenri Matisse
Date1917
Art MovementFauvism

About Laurette with a White Blouse

“Laurette with a White Blouse,” created by Henri Matisse in 1917, is a portrait that embodies the spirit of Fauvism, an art movement known for its bold colors and expressive brushwork. As a genre, the portrait is intended to capture the essence of the sitter—here, a woman named Laurette—and Matisse’s approach to this artistic task is characteristic of his innovative style during that era.

The artwork presents a female figure rendered with a series of brisk, confident brushstrokes. The subject, portrayed from the waist up, appears to be seated against a simplistic background with a muted palette of greens and ochres that suggests a nondescript space. Her attire features a white blouse with delicate ruffles and details, emphasizing the luminosity and texture of the fabric.

Facial features and skin tones are depicted using a contrast of light and shadow, and the artist’s use of color is distinct, with the contours of the face and the play of light crafted through non-traditional hues, a hallmark of Matisse’s Fauvist period. The woman’s dark hair frames her face and cascades onto her right shoulder, adding depth and a sense of movement to the composition.

The portrayal is not one of detailed realism but evokes a certain mood through the simplification of form and the rich, expressive colors. In Laurette’s contemplative gaze, the viewer can sense a combination of introspection and presence, characteristic of Matisse’s ability to evoke the inner life of his subjects. Overall, “Laurette with a White Blouse” reflects the artist’s unique and impactful mark on the development of modern art, capturing the vibrancy and emotional resonance that Fauvism sought to express.

Other Artwork from Henri Matisse

More Fauvism Artwork

Scroll to Top