Helly Nahmad Gallery presents a collection of radiant masterpieces by Henri Matisse (1869–1954). Influenced by the relaxed and joyous atmosphere of the Côte d’azur, Henri was at his happiest and most creative in this warm, light filled environment. Here he produced some of his most beautiful works; luminous vistas, sensual models in flower filled interiors, open windows looking out to the dazzling blue sea.

Also exhibited, and in great contrast to the radiant paintings, are the four monumental bronze Backs. Developed alongside his painted compositions in which the figure was a central feature, these monolithic sculptures of female figures were made at intervals between 1909 and 1930. Kindly loaned by Tate, and at almost 2m tall, these sculptures show a progression of the female form, moving away from naturalism towards a more abstract, primitive and direct sense of the nude.