Though many critics at the time were unstinting in their cruel remarks about the supposed foolishness of an old man, the work, termed gouaches découpées ( gouache cut-outs ), in fact represented a milestone in modern art. Matisse had not only defied frailty to pursue his artistic impetus, he had also created a whole new medium for exploring the age-old conflict between color and line.

This 96-page, hardcover edition includes rich image reproductions from many of Matisses most celebrated cut-outs,and a detailed biography for context of the artists life and work.