The artwork “Woman with Mandolin” by Henri Matisse was created circa 1921 – 1922. It is an oil on canvas piece that falls under the genre painting category and is situated within the Post-Impressionism movement. The dimensions of this piece are 47 x 40 cm. Presently, the painting is housed in the Musée de l’Orangerie, located in Paris, France.
The artwork features a woman holding a mandolin, positioned against an interior space with a backdrop that appears to open onto a view of a seaside landscape. Tropical trees and a serene sky are visible from the window. The woman depicted shows a contemplative expression, with her gaze directed towards the viewer. Matisse’s style is evident through the simplified forms, fluid brushstrokes, and use of bold colors. The motif of the mandolin paired with the location suggests a connection to leisure and the arts, a common theme in Matisse’s work that reflects a certain joie de vivre. Incorporating elements typical of Matisse’s exploration of interior and exterior spaces, the painting captures a slice of life imbued with the tranquil and harmonious beauty characteristic of the artist’s Post-Impressionist phase.
