The artwork entitled “Laurette with Long Locks” was created by the artist Henri Matisse in the year 1917. It is a portrait that aligns with the Post-Impressionist movement, characterized by its bold use of color and simplified forms.
This artwork features a woman depicted against a monochromatic warm background that accentuates the subject’s visage. Matisse has rendered the figure with a distinctive sense of linearity, with black lines delineating her facial features and the long locks of hair from which the artwork draws its name. The woman’s eyes are rendered with a striking intensity, while her lips are subtly defined. The dark hair contrasts sharply with her pale skin and the lighter tones of her clothing. The brushwork is visible, providing texture and depth to the piece.
The use of color is emblematic of Matisse’s style during this period, where distinct blocks of color are often used to convey not only physical form but also emotional resonance. The portrait exudes a certain intimacy and reflection, typical of Matisse’s quests during this era to capture more than mere likeness, aiming instead to capture something of his subject’s essence.
