Les coucous, tapis bleu et rose (1911) by Henri Matisse - Poster

Henri Matisse transforms a tranquil still life into a lively play of pattern. Lemon-yellow flowers fill a blue-and-white ceramic jug, resting on deep indigo fabric traced with pale leaf shapes. A cool turquoise wall frames a small scene, while a bold red stripe breaks up the calm. Simple blocks of colour meet spirited ornament, giving the room a gentle rhythm. The cool backdrop makes the blooms stand out, while arabesques echo across the vase and cloth. The tablecloth takes centre stage, and Matisse lets it shine.

Drawn to this confident use of colour and lyrical line? Browse our hand-picked Matisse poster collection and create a gallery wall with pattern, rhythm and an easy feel.

• Palette: teal, indigo, blush, mustard, coral.
• Styling notes: pair with streamlined furniture, rattan or pale timber for balance.
• Looks at home above a console or in a dining nook; it also works well with abstract line art.
• Available as a poster in a range of sizes.

Matisse’s Fauvist spirit comes through in the bright colour blocks and his delight in surface over depth. If you’d like to learn more about the story behind the scissors and the joy that shaped his studio, read our feature on Matisse’s spirited life and simple pleasures. Ready to add a little patterned character to your wall? Choose this art print and let the motifs speak for themselves.