HENRI MATISSE (1869-1954) France
“Pasiphae” 1944
Limited edition No. 48/250.
Published by Martin Fabiani, Paris.

Dimensions:
Book: H: 13 3/16” x W: 10 3/8”
Custom leather box: H: 15 1/4” x W: 11 11/16” x D: 2 5/8”
Custom cloth slipcase: H: 16 1/8” x W: 12 3/16” x D: 3”

Signed by Matisse on the justification page.
Matisse’s Pasiphae is a singularly thrilling work and the plates were destroyed after the printing of this edition.

“A Contemporary retelling of the story of Parisphae and the Minoan bull was the impetus for one of Matisse’s most intensive printmaking experiences. Working with linoleum, a fairly easy material to use, Matisse cut many blocks of each image to achieve the perfect flow of line and relationship of forms. Intent on matching the spirit and ambience of the classical tale, Matisse took as his model ancient Greek playground vase painting”.