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Jazz
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© Succession H. Matisse / DACS 2013

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Jazz Published 1947
In 1942 Matisse was commissioned to make a book of colour prints. Initially, he intended it to be about the circus, but decided to depict other subjects as well as his original theme. He selected 'Jazz' as the title, to reflect the vibrancy and rhythm of the images. At a late stage, Matisse decided to write an accompanying text, consisting of loosely connected thoughts on painting, life and the making of the book. 'Jazz' was published in September 1947 in an edition of 270 copies with text, and 100 copies of the images alone.

Glossary Open

Commission

When an individual or organisation employs an artist to execute a particular project, the process and the resulting work are termed a ‘commission’.

Print

An image pressed or stamped onto paper or fabric. This encompasses a wide variety of techniques, usually produced in multiples, although one-off prints, known as monoprints, are also included. The term is also applied to photographic images.

Commission, Print

Details

  • Acc. No. GMA 2284
  • Medium Book with twenty unbound pochoir plates and text (in slipcase)
  • Size 42.00 x 65.50 cm (opened page size)
  • Credit Purchased 1981

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