Codomas, plate XI from the illustrated book Jazz, 1947

This work is one of the circus-themed cut outs from Matisse’s book Jazz. Matisse began producing cutouts after surgery to treat his cancer left him unable to stand. The vibrant colors of this work capture the energy of its subject matter, the Codomas. The Codomas were brothers who performed a trapeze act. The human forms have been reduced to the writhing yellow figures exploding into the center of the canvas over the yellow and black grid of the safety net.

Original Medium: pochoir

Original Size:

Date: 1947

Location: Indiana University Art Museum