The distribution of the pure colors is even more impressive. The main color focus is placed on the bright red fish. The white canvas around it intensifies the color. The green leaves contrast with the red fish. As a perceptive colorist, Matisse knew that the contrast of red and green is an intense one; that is why in his works he never placed these colors together in direct contrast. The painter resolves this contrast by introducing additional hues in a subtle balance of pink, lilac, and olive sub-tones. Pink and black shades intensify the impact of the green, and the pink halo around the fish bowl adds transparency to the whole palette of colors.