Le luxe (I) (1907) by Henri Matisse

Le luxe (I) - MATISSE, Henri - 1907 - 2

Artwork Information

TitleLe luxe (I)
ArtistHenri Matisse
Date1907
MediumOil on Canvas
Dimensions210 x 138 cm
Art MovementExpressionism
Current LocationGeorges Pompidou Center, Paris, France

About Le luxe (I)

In 1907, Henri Matisse created Le Luxe (I), a painting that portrays a beach Venus and her lady. The painting uses pale colors and large pencil study that reflect Tuscan frescoes that Matisse observed in Italy earlier in the same year. Le Luxe (I) is one of two versions of the same motif, created on the exact same scale. While Le Luxe (I) uses oils and loose, dry brushstrokes to create forms against flat planes of color, Le Luxe II utilizes distemper and large, uniformly colored planes.

Matisse’s interest in sculpture can be seen in his simplified forms against these flat planes of color. He is known for his use of color and original draughtsmanship. His work laid the foundation for modern plastic arts together with Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp. To create more interest within modern art highlights detail to certain aspects to allow it to stand out however this simplistic version allows interpretation which ensures different views are perceived from each viewer.

Luxe, Calme et Volupté created by Matisse early on in his career was considered the start Fauvism movement whereas Open Window Collioure painted two years later in 1905 displayed vast differences between the two paintings but both reflect boldness with their bright colors implemented throughout each creation. The Blue Nude (Souvenir de Biskra), another striking art piece by Matisse also from 1907 adds cohesion within his collection as it retains originality while accentuating an abstract element yet again showing visual versatility by changing mediums frequently but still implementing a clear focus on form when creating unconventional designs centered around artwork through various perspectives emanating different messages based on individual perceptions guiding viewers into imagination giving nothing less than masterpieces being produced every time he creates something new.

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