The artwork entitled “Portrait of Jean Cocteau,” created by Amedeo Modigliani in 1917 in Paris, France, is an oil on canvas piece belonging to the Expressionism movement. This portrait genre artwork depicts Jean Cocteau and is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork showcases the unique style of Modigliani, characterized by elongated forms and an emphasis on the human figure. The subject, Jean Cocteau, is presented in a formal pose, with his hands resting on his knees. His face displays Modigliani’s typical stylization—elongated with a prominent nose and pursed lips. The background is a mix of muted tones, providing a stark contrast to the dark suit and crimson chair, emphasizing the subject’s form and expression. The brushwork and color palette evoke a sense of introspection and depth, hallmark traits of the Expressionist movement.