Quote by Henri Matisse, Notebooks
Time extracts various values from a painter's work. When these values are exhausted the pictures are forgotten, and the more a picture has to give, the greater it is.
Summary
This quote suggests that the true value of a painter's work is revealed and appreciated over time. As time passes, certain qualities and aspects of the artwork become less relevant or impressive, fading into obscurity. However, a truly brilliant and impactful painting will continue to offer new insights and evoke emotions even as time goes by. The longevity and impact of a picture are then determined by the depth and richness it provides to the viewer, with the greatest artworks having the ability to continually offer something meaningful and profound.