The artwork entitled “Striped Jacket” by Henri Matisse, created in 1914, is an exemplar of the Fauvist art movement. This portrait features dimensions of 123.6 cm in height and 68.4 cm in width, showcasing Matisse’s distinctive style during a revolutionary period in art history.
In this artwork, the subject is depicted with a stylized simplicity, reflective of Fauvist ideals that prioritized bold color and composition over realistic depiction. The figure, presumably a woman based on the attire and presentation, is dressed in a vertically striped jacket with clean, flowing lines that suggest both the texture of the fabric and the form beneath. The stripes of the jacket are rendered in a strong blue against a white background, allowing them to stand out prominently.
The subject’s face is rendered with a pale complexion and features are suggested with a minimalistic approach. The eyes are dark and the lips are depicted with a hint of color, while the blush is implied through touches of pink. A striking hat adorned with what appears to be a floral ornament sits atop the subject’s head, introducing a mix of colors including red, black, and blue to the composition, further enlivening the piece.
Notably, the background of the artwork contrasts with the subject, featuring a warmer palette with tones of yellow. This juxtaposition enhances the figure’s presence and showcases Matisse’s skillful use of color to create spatial and compositional harmony. The overall effect of the artwork is one of vibrant energy and a departure from the conventional, aligning with the Fauvist movement’s embrace of non-naturalistic color and expressive brushwork.
