Boats at Etretat 1920

"Boats at Etretat" is a 1920 oil painting by Henri Matisse, depicting a scene of boats beached at the French coastal town of Etretat. Matisse, renowned for his Fauvist and Expressionist styles, employed bold brushstrokes and simplified forms to capture the essence of the scene. This painting showcases his signature use of vibrant colors, particularly the bright orange sands, the white sails, and the dark hues of the boats. The composition is characterized by a strong horizontal line, emphasizing the vast expanse of the sea and sky, while the boats in the foreground add depth and interest. This work is representative of Matisse's mature style, balancing his artistic freedom with a sense of tranquility and beauty.