Tête de femme penchée (Lorette)
1916-1917
About this artwork
This portrait of Lorette, one of Matisse's favorite models during the war years, features bold, thick brushstrokes and a vibrant yellow background. The artist emphasizes the subject's features through a simplified, expressive use of color and light.
Did you know?
Lorette was an Italian model who became a central figure in Matisse's work during his time in Nice, appearing in dozens of his paintings from 1916 to 1918. Her distinct features and stoic expression allowed Matisse to experiment with varying degrees of abstraction and color while maintaining a powerful psychological presence. This series is celebrated for marking a more somber and reflective turn in Matisse's style during the middle of the First World War.
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Tête de femme penchée (Lorette)
Henri Matisse, 1916-1917
