Goldfish, 1912, Matisse

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Describe the composition of Goldfish
Cylinder-shaped glass bowl, which holds four goldfish inside.
The bowl is placed on a circular table. Around the table, there are various coloured plants of all shapes and sizes.
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Describe the use of colour or texture used in Goldfish
The goldfish immediately attract our attention due to their bright orange colour, contrasts with the subtle pinks and greens that surround the fishbowl. The blue and orange (depicted in the metal bench and goldfish),red and green (seen in the flowers in t
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Describe the use of light and tone used in Goldfish
Matisse uses light to play with the idea of movement, seen especially in the glass fishbowl.
The plants and flowers are also painted in a decorative manner.
The background section of the painting resembles a patterned wallpaper composed of flattened sha
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Describe the use of space and depth or relief used in Goldfish
The fish are seen simultaneously from two different angles creating tension. The table top is tilted upwards, making it appear flat, yet we can still see the thin legs it balances on, Matisse was playing with the concept of depth. When viewed though the t
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Describe the use of line and brushwork used in Goldfish
Matisse uses unrefined brushstrokes- a characteristic which was typical to the Fauvist style, as well as Matisse’s own personal style at the time.
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What was the Influence from cultural/social factors in Goldfish?
Matisse’s trip to Tangier, North Africa, from January to April of 1912. He admired the Moroccans’ lifestyle, which appeared relaxed and contemplative to him. The goldfish came to symbolize this tranquil state of mind became evocative of a paradise lost, a
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What was the Influence from political factors in Goldfish?
Matisse did not paint ‘Goldfish’ in Morocco, the plants, furniture, and fish tank, were inspired by Matisse’s own belongings and a calm serenity away from Paris.
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What was the Influence from technological factors in Goldfish?
travel and transport began developing rapidly, Matisse was presented with many opportunities of experiencing various different cultures. This had a very profound impact on Matisse’s work, an example being his trip to Morocco, North Africa.
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What were the Stylistic comment and artistic influences on goldfish
Gauguin’s ‘Still Life’, 1891
Cezanne’s ‘Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses’, 1890
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What new uses or developments of materials, techniques & processes were used for goldfish?
Matisse softened his palette, the bold orange tones are reminiscent of his Fauvist years, which continued to influence his technique and use of colour throughout his career.
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What did Edouard Manet say about Goldfish?
‘a painter can say all he wants with fruits or flowers, or even clouds.’
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Describe the use of colour or texture used in Goldfish

Back

The goldfish immediately attract our attention due to their bright orange colour, contrasts with the subtle pinks and greens that surround the fishbowl. The blue and orange (depicted in the metal bench and goldfish),red and green (seen in the flowers in t

Card 3

Front

Describe the use of light and tone used in Goldfish

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

Describe the use of space and depth or relief used in Goldfish

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

Describe the use of line and brushwork used in Goldfish

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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