Henri Matisse Poésies Sailboat Plate, Circa 1970

An elegant vintage illustrated plate after Henri Matisse, originating from Poésies, the celebrated collaboration between the French modernist artist and Symbolist poet Stéphane Mallarmé.

Originally conceived in 1932 for the prestigious Swiss publisher Albert Skira, Poésies remains one of the most distinguished examples of twentieth-century illustrated bookmaking. Matisse created a remarkable series of etchings to accompany Mallarmé’s poetry, translating the written word into compositions of extraordinary simplicity, fluidity and grace.

This particularly charming composition depicts a sailboat nestled within a lush, stylized landscape, framed by flowering vines, rounded trees and an elegant classical balustrade. The boat’s soaring mast provides a striking vertical focal point, while the surrounding foliage unfolds through a delicate arrangement of sweeping, rhythmic lines.

Executed with Matisse’s characteristic economy of gesture, the illustration beautifully balances the structured geometry of the sailboat and architectural elements with the organic movement of the surrounding landscape. The intricately articulated floral details lend the composition an almost whimsical quality, while the restrained monochromatic palette preserves its distinctly modernist sensibility.

Presented in a custom Italian gilt and black wood frame, the artwork is beautifully complemented by the contrast between the richly antiqued gold detailing and deep black outer moulding. Housed under glass, the traditional character of the framing provides a sophisticated counterpoint to the simplicity and spontaneity of Matisse’s linework.

A wonderfully decorative example of Matisse’s celebrated approach to illustrated literature, this plate would make an elegant addition to a thoughtfully collected interior, particularly appealing displayed individually or alongside other works from the Poésies series.

Details

Artist: After Henri Matisse (1869–1954)

Title: Poésies de Stéphane Mallarmé — Sailboat and Garden Composition

Origin: France / Switzerland

Period: Circa 1970s

Medium: Vintage illustrated plate after an original Matisse etching

Framing: Custom Italian gilt and black wood frame

Glazing: Glass

Condition: Very good vintage condition, with natural variations and character to the gilt finish.

Dimensions: 10.5” x 13”