The artwork entitled “The Eschimo” was created by the artist Henri Matisse in the year 1947. It is classified within the figurative genre and was produced during the period that is often associated with Abstract Expressionism, although Matisse’s own style is distinct from this movement. This piece is part of the “Jazz Book” series, which is notable for its vibrant cutout designs and is considered one of Matisse’s pioneering works in color and form.
The artwork is a striking example of Matisse’s innovative use of color and shape. It presents a series of cut out designs arranged in a balanced composition. On the left side of the artwork, leaf-like forms in varying shades of green are set against a vivid orange background, evoking a sense of lush vegetation. The central segment features what appears to be a stylized face or mask rendered in a streamline moderne style, comprising of simple, bold shapes in white, green, and red, bordered by a purple frame and set against a deep blue background. On the right, similar green leaf-like forms are mirrored, creating a sense of symmetry and rhythm. Henri Matisse’s signature and the title “L’Eschimo” are inscribed on the lower right, adding a personal touch that authenticates the work. This piece exemplifies Matisse’s mastery in the realm of paper cutouts, an innovative technique he developed later in his career, and his unwavering devotion to exploring the dynamic interactions of color and form.
