Henri Matisse Poésies Two Figures 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 captivating composition depicts two intertwined female figures, their elongated forms and gracefully articulated silhouettes rendered through a delicate arrangement of expressive, flowing lines. One figure sits prominently in the foreground, adorned with a beaded necklace, while a second figure emerges behind her, creating an intimate interplay of overlapping forms and movement.

Executed with Matisse’s characteristic economy of gesture, the composition celebrates the beauty of the female form through its restrained yet remarkably expressive linework. The fluid contours, simplified features and carefully balanced negative space reflect the artist’s enduring fascination with the human figure and his ability to convey extraordinary elegance through the simplest of means.

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 modernity of Matisse’s composition.

A particularly graceful example of Matisse’s celebrated approach to illustrated literature, this plate would make a distinguished addition to a thoughtfully collected interior, equally compelling displayed individually or alongside other works from the Poésies series.

Details

Artist: After Henri Matisse (1869–1954)

Title: Poésies de Stéphane Mallarmé — Two Female Figures

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: 11.5” x 14”