The artwork titled “Woman in Blue, or The Large Blue Robe and Mimosas” was created in 1937 by the renowned artist Henri Matisse. This expressionist portrait is rendered in oil on canvas, measuring 92.7 by 73.6 centimeters. Currently, it is housed within the prestigious collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, PA, USA.
The artwork presents a portrait of a woman dressed in a striking blue robe adorned with a ruffled white collar and cuffs. The richness of the blue dominates the composition, and the figure is set against a background that holds elements of contrasting color and pattern. To her left, a fragmentary glimpse of a yellow table with what appears to be a vase of mimosas contributes a vivid splash of complementary color, while to her right, a series of simpler panels or artworks on the wall offer a juxtaposition in both form and hue.
Matisse’s use of bold outlines and flat planes of color is evident here, emphasizing the stylized representation over realistic depiction. The woman’s gaze is direct and engaging, and Matisse’s brushwork imparts a palpable sense of texture, particularly in the treatment of the ruffled collar and the intricate necklace. This piece is a testament to Matisse’s expertise in harnessing color and form to convey emotion and presence, hallmarks of his contribution to the Expressionist movement.
