50 of 108 lots
50
Henri Matisse (French, 1869-1954) Vence, 1947
Estimate: $20,000-$30,000
Sold
$42,500
Live Auction
European Art
Size
16 x 20 7/8 inches.
Description
Henri Matisse

(French, 1869-1954)

Vence, 1947

pen and India ink on paper

signed H. Matisse, dated août 47, and inscribed VENCE (lower right)

16 x 20 7/8 inches.

Condition
Framed: 24 1/8 x 28 3/4 inches.Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold “as is,” in the condition they are in at the time of the auction. The physical condition of lots can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to inspect a lot personally or through a knowledgeable representative prior to bidding. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Prospective buyers must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction, and it is the responsibility of the buyer to ensure that they have requested, received and considered any condition report.
Signature
signed H. Matisse, dated août 47, and inscribed VENCE (lower right)
Provenance
This lot is accompanied by a photo-certificate issued by Wanda de Guébriant and dated Paris, le 20/2/85.Provenance:The Artist's EstateAcquavella Galleries, New YorkSharyn Bey, acquired from the above, c. 1987Sold: Christie’s, London, February 3, 2010, Lot 243Acquired at the above sale by the present ownerLiterature:Pierre Schneider, Matisse, New York, 1984, p. 739, illus. Vence, 1947, with its rhythmic whorls and assured lines, depicts the lush landscape of southern France in a composition of arching branches that frame the bell tower of the town’s cathedral. Matisse had relocated to Vence in July 1943 to flee the German bombardment of Nice, eventually buying a home in the medieval town. Prior to his move, in 1941, the artist had become ill and was reliant on a wheelchair. Painting and sculpture became physical challenges, so Matisse turned to alternative media, including drawing. It was at this time that the artist, a notoriously dissatisfied perfectionist, began to appreciate his own works. In 1942, he wrote that, “For a year now I've been making an enormous effort in drawing. I say effort but that's a mistake, because what has occurred is a floraison (blossoming) after fifty years of effort.”