Henri Matisse’s “Seated Odalisque,” painted in 1922, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the Orientalist and Post-Impressionist movements. The dimensions of the artwork are 46.5 x 38.3 cm. It depicts a genre of nude painting (nu) and is part of the collection at the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, PA, United States.
The artwork presents a female figure in a relaxed seated pose, encapsulating the exotic and sensual qualities often associated with Orientalism. The subject, known as an odalisque—a woman in a harem—is displayed with a distinctive palette and stylistic approach that reflects Matisse’s Post-Impressionist influence. The use of vivid color and bold outlines imbue the composition with vitality and emotional expression. In the depiction, the figure is adorned with a colorful headpiece and jewelry, with her nudity partially draped by flowing, lightly hued garments. The background features a patterned and floral motif, which provides a dynamic and decorative setting that contrasts with the soft modeling of the figure’s form. Matisse’s technique emphasizes the interplay of color and shape, creating harmonious interconnections that animate the serene subject.
