Juan Gris (1887–1927) by Amedeo Modigliani
Amedeo Modigliani's 1915 oil portrait of fellow artist Juan Gris, now at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a prime example of his groundbreaking modernist style.
Notice the elongated face, the inwardly gazing eyes, and the distinctively sharp, geometric nose, which are all hallmarks of Modigliani's unique aesthetic. The flat, almost ceramic-smooth application of orange and brown tones for the skin creates a sculptural quality, a departure from traditional realism.
Modigliani developed his style during his formative years in Paris, amidst avant-garde figures like Picasso. Despite his innovative approach, his works were largely unappreciated during his lifetime. He died at 35, with little success, but his distinct vision has since made him one of the most recognized artists of the early 20th century.
What do you find most striking about Modigliani's portrait style?
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Modigliani painted his fellow artist, Juan Gris, in 1915. His distinctive style, with elongated forms, was not well received then. Look at the eyes: Modigliani's sitters often gaze inward. His nose is a sharp, geometric wedge, a signature detail. The flat, almost ceramic skin tone gives sculptural volume. Modigliani's portraits often feature such extreme elongations. He died at 35, with little success, but later became famous.