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1911-1912

This stunning work by Modigliani becomes a highlight in any collection!

At a young age Amedeo Modigliani went to the marble-quarries in Carrara to learn the skills of sculpting. Later, he became fascinated by the traditional sculptures of Africa and Oceania. These influences are instantly recognizable in this head carved from stone. It is a sanctuary portrait, its shape determined by the perfect vertical lines. It has a meditative and sacred appearance and in this respect has links with Modigliani's Hebrew background.

Modigliani's work is recognized by many people because of 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. He died at the age of 40.