Tête de jeune fille (After Portrait of a Woman in a Romanian Blouse)
Print on paper, likely a lithograph or high-quality line-art reproduction • Henri Matisse (after); features facsimile signature and date 'I4 Henri Matisse 1/42'
Style & Movement
Modernism / Fauvism influence, specifically Matisse's late period of decorative line work
Medium & Technique
Ink on paper (original style); likely offset lithography or etching, utilizing Matisse's signature 'dessins à la ligne' (line drawing) technique
Creation Period
Circa 1940-1950 (Original sketch dated '42')
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 30 x 40 cm (inner image); landscape format within a decorative frame
Subject Description
A portrait of a woman leaning her head back, likely Lydia Delectorskaya, wearing a patterned garment or headpiece consistent with Matisse's interest in Romanian blouses and decorative textiles.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible oxidation and significant browning/acid burn on the matting and paper
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $350 (as a reproduction)
Auction Estimate
$50 - $200
Provenance History
Likely a 20th-century commercial reproduction for the decorative market; no specific gallery or collection marks visible
Art Historical Significance
Represents Matisse's mastery of the 'pure line,' where complex form and emotion are conveyed without shading, focused on the rhythm of the stroke.
Notable Features
Includes a facsimile of Matisse's signature and the date '1/42', characteristic of the series produced during his time in Nice/Vence.
Condition Issues
Evident yellowing (toning) of the paper due to non-archival mounting; 'mat burn' visible around the edges of the image where it meets the board.
Conservation Recommendations
Acid-free re-matting and UV-protective glazing are recommended to halt further yellowing of the paper.