Modigliani, Amedeo, << moh `dee` lee AH nee, `ah` meh DEH oh >> (1884-1920), was an important Italian artist of the early 1900’s. His favorite subject was the single figure. He painted many portraits. Modigliani’s other favored theme was the reclining female nude.
Modigliani was a brilliant draftsman, and his creative use of line is a notable aspect of his style. He preferred oval and cylindrical forms. Most of his subjects have elongated bodies, long necks, and oval heads. The simplification and distortion of the figures in his paintings, drawings, and sculptures show his interest in black African sculpture. The elegance of his creations also suggests the influence of his friend, the sculptor Constantin Brancusi. Even though Modigliani’s portrait subjects were molded by his recognizable style, they retain their individuality.
Modigliani was born on July 12, 1884, in Livorno. He settled in Paris in 1906. He was a colorful and restless character whose early death was linked to alcohol and drug abuse. Modigliani died on Jan. 20, 1920.
