Texas foundation to sell Matisse set 'The Backs'

[January 19, 2011]  DALLAS (AP) -- A Texas foundation is selling four Henri Matisse sculptures known as "The Backs."

The Burnett Foundation acquired the large relief sculptures in 1982. The Fort Worth foundation focuses on supporting health, education, human services and art initiatives.

Its executive director, Neils Agather, say its mission is to support community activities, not own art. He says the sculptures are worth so much that the foundation can't justify keeping them.

The sculptures depict a woman's backside progressing from realistic to abstract. Sotheby's is organizing a private sale. Spokeswoman Diana Phillips said the auction house would not comment on the estimated value or disclose the eventual sale price because the sale is private.

In November, a "Back IV" sold at auction at Christie's for more than $48 million.

[Associated Press; By JAMIE STENGLE]

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