Study for Portrait V (1953) by Francis Bacon

Study for Portrait V - Francis Bacon - 1953

Artwork Information

TitleStudy for Portrait V
ArtistFrancis Bacon
Date1953
Art MovementExpressionism

About Study for Portrait V

“Study for Portrait V” is an artwork created by Francis Bacon in 1953. As a prominent example of the Expressionism movement, this work is categorized as a sketch and study, reflecting the artist’s exploration and interrogation of the human condition through portraiture. Bacon’s oeuvre is often characterized by its emotional intensity and distorted figures, which aim to evoke a visceral response from the viewer.

The artwork depicts a figure that appears to be seated within a confined, box-like space, framed by geometric lines that could represent the outlines of a room or a cubical structure. The figure’s face is rendered with thick, gestural brushstrokes, obscuring and abstracting the facial features in a manner characteristic of Bacon’s style. The distortion of the face conveys a sense of psychological turmoil or anguish, which is a recurrent theme in the artist’s work.

The palette is relatively muted with the exception of striking yellow outlines that contour the architectural elements of the composition, creating a stark contrast with the dark background. These vivid lines add a sense of depth and dimension to the piece, emphasizing the confinement of the figure within a delineated space. Overall, the artwork serves as a powerful example of Bacon’s exploration of the human psyche through distorted figuration and bold, expressive technique.

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