The artwork entitled “Woman with a Madras Hat” is a creation by the artist Henri Matisse, dating from the period of 1929 to 1930. This piece is rendered in oil on canvas, embracing the aesthetic principles of Expressionism. The dimensions of this work are quite substantial, measuring 180 by 152 centimeters. Classified as a sketch and study, the piece is currently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, we observe a woman seated in a chair, her posture relaxed and confident. The composition is marked by broad regions of vivid color, which is characteristic of Matisse’s later works. Her attire and the titular Madras hat are depicted with a pattern that provides a vibrant contrast to the other elements of the painting. The background and surroundings are simplified, with blocks of color delineating spaces such as the floor and a plum-colored column to the right. The distinction between the figure and her environment is achieved through color rather than detailed line work, emphasizing the expressive nature of the piece.
