Throughout his career few subjects inspired Henri Matisse (1869-1954) with such passion as the female figure in indoor settings. Many of his interiors focus on women—reading, daydreaming, or sleeping, as passive figures, reclining on chaise-longues, often clothed in exotic fabrics.This book offers an in-depth view of this important motif in which Matisse developed and continually explored his rich and imaginative repertoire of forms and colors. It features outstanding paintings from all periods of his career, supplemented by ensembles of his bronze sculptures, his intricate drawings, and his cut-outs and prints. Historical photographs by Cartier-Bresson, Brassaï, Hélène Adant, and others show how leading art photographers saw Matisse's models and artfully designed studio interiors. An illustrated biography completes this exquisite presentation. (German edition available ISBN 978-3-7757-1600-0)