Matisse Masterpieces: Musee d'Art Moderne Lands 61 Iconic Works Donated by Family
A remarkable donation of 61 artworks by French artist Henri Matisse has been made to Paris's Musée d'Art Moderne. The museum, which already possesses 20 Matisse pieces in its collection, is now the proud owner of an exceptionally generous gift from Barbara Dauphin Duthuit, the late wife of Matisse's grandson Claude.
The artworks, spanning various mediums including paintings, drawings, etchings, lithographs, and a sculpture, feature Marguerite – Matisse's beloved daughter who was his favourite subject. Born during the artist's relationship with model Caroline Joblau in Paris, Marguerite went on to become a prominent figure in her own right.
Despite facing numerous health challenges throughout her life, including contracting diphtheria at six and undergoing an emergency tracheotomy as a child, Marguerite bravely joined the French resistance during World War II. Her remarkable resilience and determination serve as inspiration behind Matisse's poignant portraits of her.
Matisse himself preferred to keep his art within the family rather than selling it, making the donation particularly significant. According to Fabrice Hergott, director of the Musée d'Art Moderne, "the portraits of Marguerite are extremely beautiful and moving". He added that Madame Duthuit's decision was a testament to her deep commitment to the museum and confidence in its ability to provide a new home for Marguerite's works.
With this remarkable donation, the museum has secured an exceptional addition to its Matisse collection. The 61 pieces will join forces with the 20 artworks already housed within the institution, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for modern art enthusiasts and aficionados of the renowned French artist.
A remarkable donation of 61 artworks by French artist Henri Matisse has been made to Paris's Musée d'Art Moderne. The museum, which already possesses 20 Matisse pieces in its collection, is now the proud owner of an exceptionally generous gift from Barbara Dauphin Duthuit, the late wife of Matisse's grandson Claude.
The artworks, spanning various mediums including paintings, drawings, etchings, lithographs, and a sculpture, feature Marguerite – Matisse's beloved daughter who was his favourite subject. Born during the artist's relationship with model Caroline Joblau in Paris, Marguerite went on to become a prominent figure in her own right.
Despite facing numerous health challenges throughout her life, including contracting diphtheria at six and undergoing an emergency tracheotomy as a child, Marguerite bravely joined the French resistance during World War II. Her remarkable resilience and determination serve as inspiration behind Matisse's poignant portraits of her.
Matisse himself preferred to keep his art within the family rather than selling it, making the donation particularly significant. According to Fabrice Hergott, director of the Musée d'Art Moderne, "the portraits of Marguerite are extremely beautiful and moving". He added that Madame Duthuit's decision was a testament to her deep commitment to the museum and confidence in its ability to provide a new home for Marguerite's works.
With this remarkable donation, the museum has secured an exceptional addition to its Matisse collection. The 61 pieces will join forces with the 20 artworks already housed within the institution, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for modern art enthusiasts and aficionados of the renowned French artist.