The artwork, “Bust of Manuel Humbert”, conceived by Amedeo Modigliani circa 1916 in Paris, France, is an evocative exemplar of the Expressionism art movement. Rendered in oil on canvas, this portrait intimately captures the subject, Manuel Humbert, with hallmark characeristics of the movement, encapsulating deep emotional expression through its form and color.
In this portrait, the subject is presented with pronounced and elongated features, characteristic of Modigliani’s style. The subject’s face is elongated, with an elegant yet solemn expression. The nose and the neck appear exaggerated, enhancing the profound nature of the gaze. The background features rich, muted tones, allowing the subject to be the focal point. The muted colors and the soft blending of shades contribute to the melancholic yet dignified aura of the artwork. The brushwork is confident yet subtle, giving a textured presence to the canvas. The inscription of the artist’s signature on the lower right emphasizes Modigliani’s personal investment in this intimate portrayal.
