Henri Matisse Marguerite with a Black Cat Issy-les-Moulineaux, 1910 Oil on canvas 94 x 64 cm Paris, Centre Pompidou, Musee national d’art moderne / Centre de creation industrielle Gift of Mrs Barbara Duthuit in memory of Claude Duthuit, 2013 Credits : © Centre Pompidou, MNAM-CCI, Dist.GrandPalaisRMN / Georges Meguerditchian
Dates: 4 April to 24 August 2025
Location: The Musee d’Art Moderne, Paris, France
Featuring over 110 works—including paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, and ceramics—the exhibition provides a nuanced perspective on Marguerite's pivotal role as both muse and collaborator in her father's artistic journey.
A Deeply Personal Muse
Marguerite's presence in Matisse's oeuvre is both significant and enduring. Born in 1894 during Matisse's relationship with his model Caroline Joblaud, Marguerite was legally recognised by her father and raised alongside his subsequent children with wife Amelie. Her delicate health, marked by a childhood tracheotomy that left a lasting scar, often led her to conceal her neck with ribbons or high-collared garments—a detail frequently captured in Matisse's portraits.
The exhibition meticulously traces Marguerite's evolution from a young girl to a steadfast companion in Matisse's creative endeavours. Early works, such as "Marguerite Reading" (1906), depict her as a contemplative child engrossed in literature. In "Marguerite with a Black Cat" (1910), she is portrayed holding a feline, exuding a serene yet enigmatic aura. These pieces, among others, underscore the depth of Matisse's paternal affection and his artistic fascination with his daughter's visage.
Artistic Synergy and Collaboration
Beyond serving as a model, Marguerite played an instrumental role in Matisse's artistic process. Deprived of a conventional education due to her health, she immersed herself in her father's studio, becoming an astute observer and participant in his work. Her keen insights and unwavering support contributed significantly to Matisse's creative explorations.
The exhibition highlights this collaborative dynamic, showcasing not only Matisse's portrayals of Marguerite but also her own artistic exploraions. A selection of her paintings and drawings offers visitors a glimpse into her perspective, revealing a reciprocal influence that enriched both their artistic expressions. This inclusion challenges the traditional narrative of Marguerite solely as a muse, positioning her as an artist in her own right.
Resilience Amidst Adversity
Marguerite's life was marked by remarkable resilience. During World War II, she actively participated in the French Resistance under the alias "Jeannette." Her courageous efforts led to her arrest and torture by the Gestapo in 1944. En route to the Ravensbrück concentration camp, she managed a daring escape during an Allied bombing raid, seeking refuge with fellow Resistance members.
This tumultuous period deeply affected Matisse, who, despite his own health challenges, remained profoundly concerned for his daughter's safety. The exhibition includes poignant letters exchanged between father and daughter during this time, offering an intimate glimpse into their enduring bond and mutual support amidst the horrors of war.
Marguerite and Georges Duthuit: A Union of Art and Scholarship
In 1923, Marguerite married Georges Duthuit, a distinguished writer and art critic known for his scholarly work on Byzantine and modern art. Duthuit's intellectual pursuits complemented Marguerite's artistic sensibilities, fostering a partnership that bridged creative expression and critical analysis. He wrote extensively about his father-in-law's work, contributing to the broader understanding and appreciation of Matisse's art.
However, their marriage faced challenges. Duthuit's affair with Georgia Sitwell, wife of critic Sacheverell Sitwell, led to personal turmoil. This betrayal prompted Henri Matisse to sever professional ties with Duthuit, forbidding him from writing about his work thereafter.
A Legacy Preserved
Following Matisse's death in 1954, Marguerite dedicated herself to preserving and cataloguing her father's extensive body of work. Her meticulous efforts ensured the accurate documentation and authentication of Matisse's creations, safeguarding his artistic legacy for future generations. She continued this work until her passing in 1982.
The Exhibition is a Must See!
"Matisse and Marguerite: Through Her Father's Eyes" is more than an exhibition; it is a heartfelt homage to the intricate relationship between a father and his daughter, intertwined through art, mutual respect, and enduring love. By delving into this personal narrative, the Musee d'Art Moderne de Paris offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the confluence of familial bonds and artistic genius, shedding new light on both Henri and Marguerite Matisse.
Musée d’Art moderne de Paris
11 avenue du Président Wilson
75016 Paris 16ème
For further information visit the museum website:
Further reading, articles and information:
Exhibition Review by the Guardian Newspaper: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/feb/08/matisse-muse-new-paris-exhibition-dedicated-to-the-illegitimate-daughter-he-spent-a-lifetime-painting?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Wikipedia on Henri Matisse: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_Matisse
Article about Marguerite Matisse by ArtNet: https://news.artnet.com/art-world/art-bites-marguerite-matisse-2463055
Andipa: Henri Matisse Original Art for Sale or Buy Henri Matisse paintings, drawings and sketches: https://andipagallery.com/matisse-original-artworks-for-sale/
To buy a Matisse original artwork, painting or drawing please contact Andipa on at sales@andipa.com or call +44 (0)20 7581 1244.
