Created in 1949, this original lithograph published by Chapelle du Rosaire was created as part of the La Chapelle du Rosaire (Chapel of the Rosary) project. This is a rare work in excellent condition, pulled from the edition of only 60. Hand signed by Henri Matisse (Le Cateau - Cambrésis , 1869 - Nice, 1954) to the lower right.

A crisp yellow background beautifully accentuates the black gestural lines of this mother and child image. Composed of graceful contours in a minimal composition, this work possesses a universal appeal - emphasizing joy, peace, and the innate sanctity of maternal bonds. Matisse began the Chapelle du Rosaire project when his close friend Monique Bourgeois entered the Dominican order and became Sister Jacques-Marie. Despite the lack of distinguishing characteristics, Matisse has given life to the figures - they seem to posses a full and mysterious sense of identity. This is a remarkable lithograph that is fascinating for its artistic and personal meaning to Matisse. It is both delicate in subject matter and strong in its artistic execution.