Artwork
Woman with Red Hair
Woman with Red Hair is an oil painting by Amedeo Modigliani. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1917, this oil on canvas portrays a seated woman with striking red hair.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1917, this oil on canvas portrays a seated woman with striking red hair. The composition places her against a muted green‑gray backdrop, her left arm resting on the back of a red chair. Dressed in a dark garment with a white collar, she gazes downward, her expression subdued and contemplative.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter’s elongated face and narrowed eyes convey an air of introspection, while the vivid hair color draws attention to her individuality. The subdued palette and the quiet pose suggest a moment of private reflection, aligning with the modernist interest in inner psychological states rather than overt narrative.
Technique & Style
Modigliani employs his characteristic fluid lines and simplified forms, elongating the neck and facial features to achieve a stylized elegance. The contrast between the deep reds of the chair and hair and the soft background creates depth, while the brushwork remains smooth, emphasizing the painting’s serene mood over detailed texture.
History & Provenance
The work belongs to the period when Modigliani, an Italian expatriate in Paris, was active within the École de Paris avant‑garde circles. Painted shortly before his death, it reflects his mature style. The canvas has passed through several private collections before entering its current public holding, though exact ownership details remain limited.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Amedeo Clemente Modigliani (US: ; Italian: ; 12 July 1884 – 24 January 1920) was an Italian painter and sculptor of the École de Paris who worked mainly in France.
