During the 1920s, Henri Matisse's art underwent a significant transformation, characterized by a deeper exploration into form, color, and the female figure, particularly within the odalisque theme. This period, often referred to as Matisse's Nice period due to his relocation to Nice in the autumn of 1917, marked a shift towards more decorative and serene compositions, diverging from the intense experimentation of his earlier Fauvist works. The Nice period is distinguished by Matisse's fascination with the interior and the odalisque, suffused with the luminous and vibrant light of the south of France. His works from this era, such as the series of odalisque paintings, are noted for their luxurious interiors, rich color palettes, and a sense of tranquil sensuality. These compositions often featured women in various stages of undress, set against the backdrop of opulent, exotic interiors that blended reality with the artist's imagination, evoking a sense of a harem's hothouse atmosphere. This decade also saw Matisse temporarily stepping away from easel painting. In 1929, he ceased painting temporarily and traveled extensively, including to America, where he served on the jury of the 29th Carnegie International. This period of travel and reflection would eventually lead to significant shifts in his artistic output, including a turn towards simpler forms and the innovative use of cut-outs as a medium in his later years. Throughout the 1920s, Matisse continued to explore the possibilities of drawing, sculpture, and book illustration, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and innovative artist. His work in sculpture, while less known than his paintings, remained an important part of his artistic practice, offering new ways to explore form and space. The 1920s for Henri Matisse were marked by a rich period of artistic development and exploration, characterized by a blend of decorative elegance and an ongoing quest for simplicity and serenity in art. These years laid the groundwork for his later experiments and solidified his status as one of the leading figures of modern art​ (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)​​ (The Art Story)​​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​.