The artwork “Moorish Woman with Upheld Arms” by Henri Matisse, created in 1923, is an example of Post-Impressionism located at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, USA. It is a nude painting (nu) with dimensions of 65 x 50 cm.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with a depiction of a nude female figure. She assumes a relaxed pose, seated, with her arms raised and hands resting behind her head. The background is adorned with decorative elements that evoke a Moorish aesthetic, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors that capture the viewer’s attention. The use of bold outlines and flattened areas of color are characteristic of Matisse’s style during this period. The female subject is portrayed with a direct gaze towards the viewer, creating an engaging and confrontational composition. The overall effect is one of exotic allure, with the artist’s emphasis on color and pattern contributing to a sense of sensuousness and ornamental beauty.
