The artwork “Head of Lorette” is a portrait by Henri Matisse, created in the period between 1916 and 1917. As a representation of the Post-Impressionism art movement, its dimensions are modest, measuring 21.5 by 15.5 cm. The genre of the piece is portraiture, and as of my knowledge cut-off in April 2023, it resides within a private collection.
The artwork features the head of a woman, captured with the distinct, expressive brushwork characteristic of Matisse’s style. The face fills the composition, with her features rendered through bold, simplistic strokes, emphasizing the eyes, nose, and mouth. The color palette is relatively muted, with the exception of the striking contrast between the subject’s pale skin and the dark background and hair. The eyes gaze directly outward, establishing an engaging connection with the viewer. The strong outlines and the use of light and shadow signal a departure from realism, typical of the Post-Impressionist movement, and suggest an interest in conveying emotion and the inner experience of the subject rather than a precise likeness.
