During the 1910s, Henri Matisse continued to explore and innovate within the world of modern art, significantly impacting the development of painting and sculpture. This decade was marked by his exploration of form, color, and composition, leading to the creation of some of his most significant works. Matisse's interest in sculpture became evident with "The Back I" (1908-09), the first in a series of four relief sculptures that he worked on until 1931. These pieces were revolutionary in their approach to the relief sculpture medium, challenging traditional perceptions by suggesting that the background and figure were carved from the same material, progressively simplifying and merging the figure with its background. This series reflects Matisse's continuous dialogue with the sculptural form and his innovative approach to merging figure and space​ (The Art Story)​. The 1910s also saw Matisse delving deeper into painting, with works such as "The Moroccans" (1915-16) and "Bathers by a River" (1917). "The Moroccans" is particularly noteworthy for its use of abstract motifs and a rigid, diagrammatic composition that diverges from his earlier Fauvist works. This painting, influenced by his visits to Morocco, represents a blend of vivid color and abstract composition, reflecting the stark contrasts and vibrant light of the region. "Bathers by a River" signifies a pivotal moment in Matisse's career, marking a departure from his more decorative style to a confrontation with Cubism. Over the years, this painting evolved through various transformations, ultimately reflecting a more structured and faithful representation of the human figure and its spatial positioning. Both works exemplify Matisse's experimental approach to form and his ability to synthesize different artistic influences, including Cubism​ (The Art Story)​. The 1910s were a transformative period for Matisse, characterized by his bold experiments with color, form, and composition. Through his innovative sculptures and paintings, Matisse not only challenged traditional artistic conventions but also laid the groundwork for future developments in modern art. His work during this decade underscores his status as a leading figure in the modernist movement, demonstrating a relentless pursuit of expressive possibilities within the visual arts​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​​ (The Art Story)​.