The Wolf Possibly 1947

"The Wolf" is a gouache on paper by Henri Matisse, likely created in 1947. This piece is characteristic of Matisse’s later work, known as his “cut-outs”. Matisse created these works by cutting out shapes from paper and arranging them on a surface, a technique he developed as he became less physically able to paint. "The Wolf" features bold, simplified shapes in vivid colors reminiscent of a wolf’s silhouette and, despite its abstract nature, conveys a sense of movement and energy. This work exemplifies Matisse's mastery of color and form and his interest in exploring the expressive potential of simplified shapes.