The artwork entitled “Seated Woman with a Vase of Amaryllis” was created by Henri Matisse in 1941. As a seminal figure of the Fauvism movement, Matisse’s portrait harnesses vibrant, expressive color and bold patterning. Fauvism, a style known for its non-naturalistic color and loose form, is embodied in this piece that stems from a genre of portraiture.
The artwork in question depicts a woman seated against a red and yellow-hued backdrop. She is dressed in a garment that features yellow tones with black botanical motifs, which blend seamlessly with the lush foliage behind her. The presence of a vase containing Amaryllis flowers on a table beside her introduces a spectrum of pinks, reds, and greens, contributing to the overall vivacity of the scene. The woman’s posture is formal and poised, her gaze forward and direct, offering a silent engagement with the viewer. The stylized rendering of the setting and figure is characteristic of Matisse’s approach, emphasizing the emotional effect over realistic representation. The strong contrasts, flattened perspective, and decorative elements underscore the Fauvist aesthetic that Matisse pioneered. The signature of the artist is prominently displayed in the upper right corner, confirming the authenticity and origin of the work.
