Matisse at War: Art and Resistance in Nazi Occupied France

This authoritative volume examines the pivotal years during World War II when Henri Matisse and his family chose to remain in Nazi-occupied France, uncovering their significant involvement in the Resistance. It sheds light on the artist’s innovative and revolutionary work created under the shadow of fascism, violence, and hatred. Against the backdrop of personal and national turmoil, Matisse developed a groundbreaking paper-cut technique resulting in masterpieces like The Fall of Icarus and Jazz. Drawing from extensive archival material and intimate correspondence, Christopher C. Gorham offers an unprecedented exploration of Matisse’s resilience and artistic reinvention during one of history’s darkest periods, highlighting the enduring impact of his wartime oeuvre on modern art.