Auguste Pellerin (II) 1917

Curator: Henri Matisse’s oil on canvas, "Auguste Pellerin (II)", painted in 1917, hangs here. Editor: First glance? Intimidating. And maybe a little spooky? Those eyes... They bore right through you, don't they? It feels like I’ve walked in on some secret society meeting. Curator: Indeed. The portrait presents a somewhat detached figure. Note the geometric simplicity, the stark planes of color. Matisse reduces Pellerin to essential forms. Observe, too, the painting within the painting in the background; it is likely one from Pellerin's impressive Cézanne collection. Editor: Oh, interesting! So, Pellerin was a collector. That gives him some context, right? Makes me see him differently, perhaps as someone thoughtful, discerning… though he still looks a tad severe. The color palette feels muted and, dare I say, depressive. Curator: The restrained palette is deliberate, certainly. It’s worth considering the historical context; 1917 was a turbulent time. The war, no doubt, cast its shadow. The composition, moreover, creates a sense of psychological distance, doesn't it? The hands clasped rigidly; the gaze direct yet impassive. It all contributes. Editor: It really does. The whole piece radiates a stillness, but also an almost unbearable tension. Like he’s holding something back. Is it the era, you think? Or a deliberate choice to represent Pellerin’s inner state? It’s almost a Cezanne in the back mirror painting its collector? How fascinating... Curator: A synthesis of both, most likely. Matisse was always interested in the psychological impact of colour and form. He wasn’t simply painting a likeness, but creating an emotional register of the man, a sense of reserved control. Editor: Well, it definitely made an impression. Walking in front of this painting, is kind of a raw confrontation between artist's perspective and Pellerin's true self! Food for thought on many layers... Curator: A perfect intersection of art, collector and era! An imposing piece open to complex reading for those daring to plunge in.