The Modernist Matriarch

Captured between 1917 and 1918, Henry Lyman Sayen’s Daughter in a Rocker is a vibrant intersection of American Modernism and European influence. Sayen, a scientist and artist who studied under Matisse, uses a bold, kaleidoscopic palette to deconstruct a simple domestic moment. The subject is transformed into a rhythmic arrangement of checkered patterns, fluid waves, and floral motifs, offering a rare glimpse into the early 20th-century avant-garde movement.

Curatorial Note: This piece was specifically selected for the collection due to its exceptional preservation of color and its "Livable Avant-Garde" aesthetic. Sourced from the Smithsonian Institution’s archives, the work has been curated to highlight the sharp, geometric boundaries of Sayen’s vision. By focusing on a frameless presentation, we allow the intricate patterns—from the stippled "fruit" motifs to the cobalt waves—to extend to the very edge of the medium. This approach honors the artist’s original, boundary-pushing intent while ensuring the work remains a striking, clean-lined focal point for contemporary interiors.

• Material: FSC-certified birch wood, showcasing natural grain for a rustic feel.
• Finish: Clean edges with edge-to-edge prints for a seamless look.
• Thickness: 10mm (0.4")
• Printing: Unprinted white areas reveal the wood grain for added texture.
• Hanging Kit: Included; varies by country.
• Sizes: 5 options in inches (US&CA) and cms (rest of the world).

No minimum orders, printed and shipped on demand.