Seated Riffian 1912

Henri Matisse painted "Seated Riffian" with oil on canvas sometime in his career. Rather than a traditional, academic approach to painting, notice how Matisse uses color to flatten the image, almost like a poster. The “Riffian” in the title refers to a person from the Rif region of Morocco, and the man’s clothing is quite elaborate. This suggests that he is of some status. Look closely at his robe. See the applied decoration around the sleeves and the tassels hanging down? These elements speak to a history of textile production. The woven and applied ornament may have involved many artisans, and countless hours of labor. Matisse simplifies all of this handwork, flattening it into a visual experience. He gives us the essence of the social structure, and the clothing worn, without the need for fussy detail. This challenges traditional notions of fine art, suggesting a more direct, democratic approach. Through his emphasis on material, making, and context, Matisse bridges the gap between cultures and art forms.