L'Étoile (The Star), from the Jazz portfolio
Original color stencil (pochoir) print on Arches paper • Henri Matisse (1869–1954)
Style & Movement
Modernism / Fauvism influence / Matisse Cut-outs (Gouaches découpés)
Medium & Technique
Color stencil (pochoir) using Gouache-painted paper cut-outs as the basis for the design
Creation Period
1947
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 42 x 65 cm (16.5 x 25.6 in); vertical/portrait format
Subject Description
A simplified, organic yellow six-pointed star floats against a solid blue background above three black wavy, undulating shapes representing movement or elements of nature (possibly clouds or waves). This composition is Plate XV from Matisse's seminal Jazz portfolio.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible glare on the glazing suggests it is framed, but the paper appears flat without significant foxing
Estimated Market Value
$15,000 - $35,000 USD (individual plate)
Auction Estimate
$12,000 - $25,000 USD
Provenance History
Originally published by Tériade in 1947 in an edition of 250 (standard) and 100 (suites). Likely sourced from a gallery specializing in 20th-century masters.
Art Historical Significance
Reflects Matisse's revolutionary late-career 'cut-out' technique where he 'drew with scissors.' Jazz is considered one of the most influential artist books of the 20th century, marking the transition from his earlier paintings to large-scale mural works.
Notable Features
Vibrant ultramarine blue characteristic of Matisse's late period; distinctively organic, 'primitive' shapes that defined the aesthetic of the 1940s and 50s.
Condition Issues
Reflections in the photo obscure the surface, but potential issues with pochoirs include light-fading of gouache pigments and acidity from non-archival framing materials if original.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of UV-filtering museum glass and acid-free archival mounting. Maintain stable humidity to prevent paper rippling.