Henri Matisse is the best known of this colorful, innovative group of painters.
c. 1905–1910 C.E.
Beginner's guide
Fauvism, developed in France, became the first new artistic style of the 20th century.
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Fauve Landscapes and City Views
The Fauves created paintings that seem to celebrate the pleasures of painting as much as the pleasures of life.
Henri Matisse, Open Window, Collioure
Although the style implies a rapid or even slipshod painting process, Open Window, Collioure was carefully orchestrated in every aspect.
Henri Matisse, the illustrated book Jazz
At first glance this looks like a series of cheerful circus images, but upon further inspection, it’s much darker.
Henri Matisse, The Blue Window
When Matisse painted this, all the cool kids were into cubist geometry—and Matisse was definitely cool.
Henri Matisse, Luxe, calme et volupté
Matisse borrows brushwork technique from his pal Signac—but don’t call him a Pointillist just yet.
Henri Matisse, The Piano Lesson
Here, Matisse commits the cardinal parenting sin of conflating his own childhood experiences with those of his son.
Henri Matisse, Goldfish
To say that Matisse “had a thing for goldfish” would be kind of an understatement.
Henri Matisse, The Red Studio
In this painting of the artist’s studio, it’s Matisse vs. the illusion of space in a bloody battle royale.
Henri Matisse, Dance I
You know that painting from third grade your mom won’t take off the fridge? This is different. Mostly.
Henri Matisse, Bonheur de Vivre
Though its languid poses reference Titian, this was regarded as the most radical painting of its day.
