Etretat, The Sea 1921

Henri Matisse's "Etretat, The Sea" from 1921 depicts the iconic white cliffs of Etretat, France. The painting exemplifies Matisse's Fauvist style, characterized by bold brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and an emphasis on light and shadow. The simplified forms and flat planes of the cliffs and sea create a sense of tranquility, while the vibrant blues and greens evoke the freshness and energy of the ocean. The small figures on the beach add a human element to the scene, contrasting the vastness of the landscape.