Earlier this spring, SFMOMA unveiled a new exhibition centered around an iconic painting, Matisse’s Femme au chapeau. While today the painting appears to be a beautiful portrait, it was actually incredibly controversial when it was first shown in a Parisian salon over 100 years ago. Now, the exhibit is entering its last few weeks, closing on September 13, 2026.
Matisse’s Femme au chapeau: A Modern Scandal
In 1905, Matisse exhibited his painting Femme au chapeau at the Salon d’Automne in Paris. The exhibition featured the works of various other artists, including Charles Camoin, André Derain, Henri Manguin, Albert Marquet, and Maurice de Vlaminck. Critics were not fond of the exhibit, especiallyLouis Vauxcelles, who famously referred to the artists as “fauves,” which later became the name of the artistic movement. Matisse’s portrait became the leading painting of the movement.
Now, the SFMOMA has recreated the Parisian salon, including works from the original artists, along with the iconic Matisse painting.
“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to share the full story of Matisse’s Femme au chapeau—a painting that is emblematic of the artist’s radical break from convention in the early years of his career,” said Janet Bishop, SFMOMA’s Thomas Weisel Family Chief Curator. “Arguably SFMOMA’s most art-historically significant work of art, Femme au chapeau began sending shockwaves through the art world as soon as it left Matisse’s studio and has captivated viewers ever since. The exhibition will shed light on the painting in more detail than ever before, from its public debut in Paris in 1905, to its years as a must-see painting in Leo and Gertrude Stein’s Left Bank apartment, and, eventually to the walls of SFMOMA.
The exhibit also explores Femme au chapeau’s impact on art over the years, showcasing works inspired by the portrait. Matisse’s Femme au chapeau: A Modern Scandal will only be on view for another two weeks, closing on September 13. Tickets include a $10 surcharge on weekdays and $12 on weekends.