Henri Matisse

Mlle Renée de Gamrat (a gift from the artist)
Private Collection, Vallée de la Loire
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Lydia Delectorskaya, Henri Matisse, Contre vents et marées. Peinture et livres illustrés de 1939 à 1943, Paris, 1996, illustrated p. 144

Executed on cream wove paper not laid down, attached to the mount in all four corners and floating in the mount. The bottom and right edges are deckled. There is a pentimente beneath the lower right of the work and in the blank space between signature and face. There are some removed lines of ink in the lower right quadrant which have been scratched out, in all probability by the artist, which has naturally resulted in some paper thinning. The inscription has been applied over a previous inscription, probably by the artist. This work is in good condition. Colours: Overall accurate although the paper tone is lighter in the original.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Renée de Gamrat lived in Cimiez and looked after Matisse's doves when he was in Vence between 1943 and 1944 .