The artwork titled “Anfitrite,” created by Henri Matisse in 1947, is an illustration made using gouache on paper. It forms part of the “Jazz Book” series and is situated within the art movement known as Abstract Expressionism. The genre of this piece is categorized as an illustration due to its intended purpose in the aforementioned series.
In the artwork, we observe a vibrantly colored composition featuring abstract and organic shapes, strategically placed within a grid-like structure. These forms are rendered in a bold, cut-out gouache technique that Matisse adopted in his later years. Each cell within the grid presents a unique arrangement of shapes and colors. The use of contrasting hues and the simplified yet evocative shapes lend an energetic and rhythmic visual narrative to the piece, which is indicative of Matisse’s innovative approach to abstract imagery. The organic shapes may be interpreted as referencing marine life or vegetation, in line with the title “Anfitrite,” which refers to the ancient Greek sea goddess. This artwork exemplifies Matisse’s masterful use of color and shape to convey emotion and movement.
