Very rare lithograph on pure thread vellum paper signed and dated by Matisse in the plate Size: 32.5 x 24.6 cm from the portfolio published in 1943 in Paris under the title " Dessin : Thèmes et Variations " Based in Nice at the Hotel Regina since 1938 and very weakened following a serious operation, Matisse began in 1941 a series of drawings in pen, pencil and charcoal: "For the past year I have made a considerable effort, one of the most important of my life. I have improved my drawing and made amazing progress... with a lot of sensations and a minimum of manners. It's like a rebirth... Many drawings are totally surprising" Originally, the portfolio contained 158 drawings organised by Matisse in 17 Themes (rated A to P) and comprising 3 to 19 variations. One of the 920 numbered copies 31 to 950 here no.866 (Theme C variation 3) In a perfect condition