Modigliani (1884-1920)Amedeo Modigliani's work is recognized immediately by many people
because of the typical elongated shapes. His paintings show his passion
for sculpting, a craft which he had to give up in 1915 due to ill
health. He was born in the Tuscan town of Livorno and received his
academic education in Florence and Venice. In 1906 he established
himself in the famous Montmartre area in Paris, where his talent was
instantly recognized by the East European avant-garde. He had a short
and eventful artistic life (1884-1920), he was extremely driven and
longed for recognition. But his life was also marked by alcoholism,
metaphysical fears and progressive tuberculosis. At the age of forty,
Modigliani left the world an oeuvre that shows a sincere, obsessive
search for truth and purity within art.
Large Red Bust (1913)In 1912, the art of sculpture seemed to have taken a heavy toll. Modigliani was completely exhausted by the heavy and dusty work. He was forced to devote his attentions once again to painting and was inspired by Chaim Soutine, his new neighbor. He was particularly impressed by the technique and definitive lines of this Lithuanian Impressionist. Modigliani's sculptures were heavily inspired by traditional African and Oceanic sculpture. This powerful painting displays the same sculptural characteristics.
Measures: 6.75"H x 3.5"W x 2"D.
