Henri Matisse Calypso from Ulysses, 1935, allows the viewers a chance to gain insight on the story of Calypso in the Odyssey through the repetition of bodies intertwining against each other. In Greek mythology, Calypso is a sea nymph who seduces and captures Odysseus for seven years. She is often regarded as a seductress and a concealer, with which the latter is related to her name. In the exciting year of 1935, Matisse created several etchings to illustrate James Joyce’s novel Ulysses, a modern adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey. This etching is a rare and prolific work that conflates the linking of literature and illustration.

Matisse renders these human-like bodies in twists and turns as if there is no end or beginning to their forms. He evokes a sense of suffering as these bodies writhe in perpetuation. This pattern of repetition can be found in many of his works such as Le Concert (The Concert), 1931-1932, where fine line drawings depict dimensional and architectural renditions. This specific scene somehow manages to harmonize dynamism and serenity—a feat that is immensely difficult to achieve. Subtle shading and simple composition provide an intense glimpse of Matisse’s psyche as an artist. Calypso from Ulysses, 1935, enables us to appreciate Matisse as a twentieth century modern master outside the realm of his paintings. His dual ability to paint and produce graphic works all the more inspires art appreciators.

Created in 1935, this soft ground etching on Arches paper is hand-signed by Henri Matisse (Le Cateau-Cambrésis, 1869 - Nice, 1954) in pencil in the lower right margin. Numbered from the edition of 150 in pencil in the lower left margin, this work was published by Limited Editions Club, New York.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Henri Matisse Calypso from Ulysses, 1935 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices accompanying the final sale of the work).

1. Duthuit-Matisse, Marguerite, Henri Matisse: Catalogue raisonné de lœuvre grave Tome I, Paris: Claude Duthuit, 1983, Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 235
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this etching.

About the Framing:

Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Henri Matisse Calypso from Ulysses, 1935 is presented in a complementary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical-grade Plexiglas.