Hello Yassine,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The presented object appears to be a pen and ink sketch, depicting a nude woman lounging in a chair. The drawing measures approximately 11 x 9 in. and has been attributed to the French artist Henri Matisse (1869-1954) due to the presence of the signature "Henri Matisse" in the bottom right corner of the composition and a label affixed to the verso, which appears to be an attestation from the late Wanda de Guébriant, a noted expert on the oeuvre of Matisse. This piece is in good condition and no severe damage is visible in the images provided.

Unfortunately, the quality of the composition is not comparable to authenticated works by Henri Matisse. Consider the following comparables:

https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2018/prints-multiples-n09849/lot.13.html
https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2023/modern-discoveries-4/nu-renverse-pres-dune-table-louis-xv
https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2023/art-impressionniste-et-moderne-evening-auction/odalisque-sur-fond-ornemental

I also question the veracity of the attestation on the verso of the work, which contains some confusing language.

Therefore, the unfortunate conclusion from this investigation is that the work of art presented is most likely a forgery, which holds no market value.

If you have questions or concerns, I would recommend that you get in touch with our authentication team by email at [email protected]. The label on the verso of the work does include an archive (?) catalogue raisonné reference number, which could easily be checked to confirm or refute this initial opinion of authenticity.

Kind regards,
Anne