Seated Riffian (Le Rifain assis), 1912 eller 1913 Henri Matisse (1869-1954)

The composition presents a seated figure against a backdrop of bold, flat color planes. The individual is positioned centrally within the frame, occupying most of its vertical space. He appears to be male, with facial hair suggesting maturity. His skin tone is rendered in an unusual shade of green, which immediately draws attention and disrupts conventional expectations of portraiture.
The figure’s attire consists of a dark, voluminous robe or cloak, adorned with decorative patterns along the edges. These patterns are executed in contrasting colors – red, yellow, and white – providing visual interest and hinting at cultural specificity. He wears a turban-like head covering, further reinforcing an association with a non-European culture. His hands are clasped across his lap, conveying a sense of composure or perhaps restrained dignity. The feet are clad in simple, yellowish slippers.
The background is characterized by large blocks of color – blue, yellow, and red – arranged vertically. These colors do not blend seamlessly; instead, they create distinct zones that flatten the pictorial space. This approach minimizes depth and emphasizes a decorative quality. The stark contrast between the figure’s green skin and the vibrant backdrop contributes to an overall sense of artificiality or stylization.
The paintings subtexts are complex and open to interpretation. The unusual coloration of the subject’s skin could be interpreted as a deliberate distancing from realism, perhaps intended to emphasize his “otherness” within a European context. It might also signify a symbolic representation rather than a literal depiction. The decorative elements of his clothing suggest an interest in exoticism or cultural difference, potentially reflecting colonial perspectives prevalent during the period. However, the figure’s dignified posture and direct gaze challenge any simplistic reading of him as merely an object of curiosity.
The flattened perspective and bold colors contribute to a sense of formality and monumentality. The work seems less concerned with capturing individual likeness than with exploring themes of identity, representation, and cultural encounter through a highly stylized visual language. It is likely that the artist sought to engage with notions of “primitive” art or cultures while simultaneously questioning conventional modes of portraiture.