Marguerite 1907

Editor: Here we have Henri Matisse's "Marguerite," painted in 1907. It's an oil painting, currently at the Musée Picasso. I’m struck by the simplicity of the image. The colour palette is somewhat muted, with contrasting tones creating a slightly somber, maybe even melancholic feeling. What do you make of it? Curator: It's interesting that you use the word 'melancholic'. The flattened perspective and bold use of colour in Fauvism were often intended to disrupt conventional representation. But if you perceive it, perhaps there’s a reading of 'Marguerite' as a subversion of traditional portraiture's idealization of feminine beauty and its symbolism. Look at the large almond shaped eyes - do these hold any memories, like windows into Marguerite’s persona? Editor: That’s an interesting interpretation. I was so focused on the lack of detail. So the apparent 'simplicity' contributes to the symbolism by deliberately avoiding conventions? Curator: Exactly. Consider the stark contrast between the ochre background and her dark hair and choker. Colour serves an expressive rather than descriptive function. Perhaps the somber tone suggests something about Marguerite’s internal life, or the artist’s relationship with her. This wasn’t just a painting of someone but *about* someone. What else do you notice about the lines of the garment and neck? Editor: The neck is a simple black line creating a bold sense of separation of head from body... There seems to be a suppression of any details unrelated to her expression and persona. Almost, an effigy. Curator: Yes, perhaps a deconstruction of the visual symbols and established narratives associated with portraiture at the time? By paring it down, Matisse encourages us to really *see*. The choker feels like an icon. A deliberate, and slightly unsettling, aesthetic choice for the era. Editor: This makes me consider it with fresh eyes. It really does invite contemplation. Curator: Indeed. Hopefully it will stay with you.