The artwork entitled “Chrysanthemums in a Chinese Vase” was created by Henri Matisse in 1902. It is an oil on board painting, exemplifying the Post-Impressionist movement. Measuring 71 by 54 centimeters, this piece of art is a flower painting genre and, as of the last recorded information, is held in a private collection.
The artwork vividly depicts a bouquet of chrysanthemums arranged in an ornate Chinese vase. The brushwork is loose and expressive, characteristic of Matisse’s style during his Post-Impressionist phase, with an emphasis on bold color and dynamic brush strokes. The vase, adorned with patterns, contrasts with the lively, almost untamed nature of the flowers, which burst forth in a harmony of yellows, pinks, and reds against a backdrop of painterly green and yellow hues. The composition is anchored by a solid reddish-brown foreground, where the vase sits, and the brushstrokes give the artwork a sense of movement and vibrancy. The prominent signature of Matisse is also visible in the bottom right. This painting reflects the artist’s interest in exploring color and form, eschewing realism for a more emotional and expressive rendition of the subject.
