La pudeur (L'Italienne)
1905
About this artwork
This portrait uses bold, non-naturalistic colors typical of Matisse's early Fauvist period to depict a woman in a stylized manner. It is part of the experimental works from the artist's summer in Collioure.
Did you know?
This painting represents the height of the Fauvist movement, where Matisse and his contemporaries were dubbed 'les fauves' or 'wild beasts' by critics for their radical, unrestrained use of color. The title 'La pudeur' (modesty) contrasts sharply with the bold, aggressive application of paint, showcasing the artist's focus on emotional expression over realistic representation.
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La pudeur (L'Italienne)
Henri Matisse, 1905
