Original c. 1938 Henri Matisse Pencil Sketch Hand & Hammer Georges Matisse LOA

This listing is for “Esquisse main et marteau” circa 1938 by Henri Matisse (1869-1954) pictured above.About this work:An excellent, original pencil drawing by legendary French artist Henri Matisse (1869-1954).Titled “Esquisse main et marteau”, this work depicts a hand holding a hammer in a swinging motion. Dating to circa 1938, it is produced with Matisse’s signature fluid draftsmanship. The simplification of shapes and lines in this sketch foreshadows his famous cut-outs that he created later in life. The work is matted and housed in a custom wood frame behind UV filtering acrylic glazing.Please note, there are numerous fake Matisse works on the market - this is NOT one of them. This work descended in the Matisse family prior to my ownership and comes with a signed letter by Georges Matisse confirming its authenticity and inclusion in the artist’s archives. This work is number D 116 in the artist’s archives.Size:9.25 inches tall by 12.5 inches wide (sheet)17 inches tall by 21 inches w