Decorative Figure on an Ornamental Background
Artist: Henri Matisse (French, 1869-1954)
Date: 1925-1926
Medium: Oil on canvas
Collection: Centre Pompidou, Paris, France
Description
In 1921, Matisse equipped his new studio in Nice with a transformable set, made of overlapping fabric panels and a platform covered with rugs, cushions, screens, and other decorative elements. The "ornamental background" against which the "decorative figure" stands out is integrated into this setting, while the nude figure is draped only in white fabric. The rectilinear forms of the model contrast with the arabesques of the decorative motifs. By creating juxtapositions of rhythms and patterns, Matisse deliberately disrupts our perception, making it difficult to distinguish the figure from the background and the various objects placed around it.



















