Henri Matisse Vierge et Enfant (Madonna and Child), 1950 - 1951; Black gestural lines accentuate this touching image of a mother and child. Composed of graceful contours in a minimal composition, this work possesses a universal appeal-emphasizing joy, peace and the innate sanctity of maternal bonds. With simplicity of line, Matisse clearly conveys the emotions of love and security.

As the two figures hold each other closely, we immediately sense the affection shared between mother and child. They hold each other tightly, their heads tilted together with faint hints of a smile crossing their lips. This embrace is not one shared between strangers but rather between family members who greatly care about one another. Matisse's fluid draftsmanship and control of line shines through in this delightful work, which highlights the importance of family and togetherness.

Created in 1950-1951, this lithograph on chine appliqué is hand signed by Henri Matisse (Le Cateau-Cambrésis, 1869 - Nice, 1954) in pencil in the lower right. This work is numbered from the edition of 100 in pencil in the lower right (total edition of 100 signed works, 4 trial proofs, and 10 artist's proofs).

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Henri Matisse Vierge et Enfant (Madonna and Child), 1950 - 1951 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 II. Paris: Claude Duthuit, 1983. Listed and illustrated as catalogue no. 649 on pg. 210-211.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany Henri Matisse Vierge et Enfant (Madonna and Child), 1950 - 1951.

About the Framing:

Henri Matisse Vierge et Enfant (Madonna and Child), 1950 - 1951 is framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, this work is presented in a complementary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical-grade Plexiglas